Mechanical Systems Design 3: Modelling and Control

Unit code: NEM3008 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
NEM3006 - Computational Modelling of Mechanical Systems; or
NEM3101 - Engineering Analysis and Modelling
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

In this project-based unit, you will explore how mechanical systems are modelled, controlled, and optimised for performance, safety, and reliability. You will apply analytical and computational techniques to develop mathematical models, design control strategies, and evaluate system behaviour under real-world operating conditions.

Through collaborative design and testing activities, you will implement and refine feedback control systems using tools such as Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) control, focusing on system stability, responsiveness, and efficiency. Emphasis is placed on systems integration, project planning, and risk management to support effective engineering decision-making. You will also strengthen your teamwork, leadership, and communication skills while developing innovative and reliable mechanical control solutions aligned with modern engineering practice.

Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Model and interpret the design and behaviour of control systems in mechanical applications;
  2. Develop and justify mathematical models of physical systems and their associated control systems using both analytical and computational techniques;
  3. Analyse performance, sensitivity, and stability of electromechanical control systems using appropriate analytical tools;
  4. Design and optimise real-time feedback control systems using PID strategies and evaluate performance under operational constraints; a
  5. Collaborate to implement, test, and evaluate real-time control systems, demonstrating effective communication and teamwork.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Exercise
|
Grade: 20%
Controller concept development activity involving preliminary modelling and control design for a defined mechanical system (Group) (5 mins)
Assessment type: Project
|
Grade: 40%
Hardware-in-loop demonstration of developed control system with validated modelling, simulation, and performance evaluation report (Group) (3000 words)
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 40%
Viva Oral defence of control system design, analysis, and optimisation decisions demonstrating technical understanding and professional reasoning (Individual) (10 mins)

Exercise: Group controller concept development activity involving initial modelling and design of control strategies. Students present preliminary models and performance predictions supported by documentation and facilitator feedback.

Project: This secure assessment ensures authenticity through milestone reviews, hardware-in-loop demonstrations, and validation discussions. Students collaboratively implement, test, and refine their control system design, producing a professional engineering report supported by experimental data and analysis. Explicit evaluation of individual contributions further supports the secure assessment and assurance of each student’s achievement of learning outcomes.

Presentation (Viva): This secure assessment features an oral defence of the developed control system. Each student individually justifies modelling, simulation, and design decisions under unpredictable questioning, verifying independent understanding, applied reasoning, and assurance of learning.

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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