Mechanical Engineering Design Studio - Formula SAE

Unit code: NEM4003 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
NEM2007 - Design and Analysis of Machine Elements; or
NEM3102 - Design of Mechanical Systems
Completion of 240 credit points of NHEM
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

In this project-based unit, you will apply advanced mechanical engineering design, analysis, and optimisation techniques through participation in the Formula SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) project. Working collaboratively across integrated vehicle subsystems, you will follow a systems-based approach to conceptualise, model, and evaluate a high-performance, sustainable engineering solution.

The unit emphasises teamwork, project management, and interdisciplinary collaboration, mirroring the complexity and professional expectations of modern engineering practice. You will use analytical tools and simulation software to design, test, and refine components and assemblies, supported by evidence-based decision-making and iterative evaluation.
By engaging in this authentic design experience, you will strengthen your technical competence, creativity, and leadership while developing the professional judgement and communication skills required to deliver safe, innovative, and competitive engineering solutions in real-world contexts.

Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Identify complex design problems and apply advanced analytical, design, and optimisation methods to deliver feasible solutions;
  2. Research, analyse, and synthesise relevant data and literature to support evidence-based design decision-making;
  3. Apply systems thinking to conceptualise, model, and evaluate the feasibility of advanced mechanical systems;
  4. Exemplify skills in leading and working as a collaborative team member in applying best engineering practice; and
  5. Prepare and deliver technical reports and presentations that communicate complex design rationale clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Portfolio
|
Grade: 10%
Design portfolio and logbook (Group) (2000 words)
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 50%
Concept, progress, and final design presentations (Individual) (3 × 10 mins total)
Assessment type: Report
|
Grade: 40%
Interim and Final Design Reports (Group) (4000 words)

Portfolio: Ongoing documentation of design iterations, meeting minutes, CAD progress, and peer feedback. Reflects collaborative workflow, communication, and professional documentation of the design process. Students will be required to document and explain their processes through progressive milestone checks and questions to verify deep understanding.

Presentation: Students present their individual contributions to the vehicle design process across three milestones: concept, development, and final validation. Each presentation demonstrates technical reasoning, design justification, and communication to industry-standard expectations.

Report: This secure assessment includes comprehensive documentation including system design calculations, component drawings, validation results, and safety analysis. Emphasis on integration of mechanical, structural, and control subsystems to meet competition and sustainability standards. Explicit evaluation of individual contributions further supports the secure assessment and assurance of each student’s achievement of learning outcomes.

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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