Design and Analysis of Machine Elements

Unit code: NEM2007 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
NEM2101 - Mechanical Engineering Design; or
NEM2002 - Mechanical Engineering Design and Optimisation; and
NEM2003 - Applied Stress Analysis and Computational Methods; or
NEM3202 - Fluid Mechanics 2
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

In this unit, you will learn to design and assess the mechanical components that keep machines operating safely and efficiently. Using analytical design methods, fatigue analysis, and computational simulation, you will explore how stress, load, and material selection influence performance, durability, and failure.

You will apply design principles to various machine elements, evaluating how to enhance strength, stiffness, and reliability under real-world operating conditions. Through individual and team-based projects, you will produce professional design reports that reflect engineering standards and sound judgement. The unit fosters sustainable and innovative thinking, preparing you to make confident design decisions that balance performance, safety, and environmental responsibility.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Analyse and design mechanical components such as shafts and gears for strength, fatigue life, and reliability;
  2. Evaluate fatigue behaviour and component performance under realistic loading conditions using simulation tools;
  3. Redesign and optimise existing components for improved fatigue resistance using computer-based methods;
  4. Communicate design analysis, reasoning, and outcomes professionally through written and oral reports; and
  5. Collaborate in teams to integrate analysis, simulation, and documentation in the development of fatigue-resistant designs.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Exercise
|
Grade: 15%
In-class invigilated stress and fatigue challenge using provided data and problem-solving (Individual) (30 mins)
Assessment type: Project
|
Grade: 35%
Fatigue-resistant component design including analysis, material selection, and simulation report (Group) (3000 words)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 50%
In-class invigilated test on stress, fatigue, and component design (Individual) (120 mins)

Exercise: This secure in-class assessment ensures authenticity by requiring students to analyse unseen stress and fatigue problems under supervised conditions. Real-time reasoning and unpredictable parameters verify understanding and application of fatigue principles.

Project: Group design project developing a fatigue-resistant component, integrating analytical design, simulation, and materials selection. Each student's contribution will be systematically assessed, with milestone reviews and accompanying progress reports ensuring accountability and professional practice.

Test: This secure assessment ensures authenticity by requiring students to complete written and computational problem-solving tasks under invigilated conditions. Unpredictable scenarios test reasoning, analytical rigour, and the ability to apply theory to realistic engineering design contexts.

Required reading

Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical Engineering)
NHEM | Bachelor honours degree | Duration: 4 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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