Advanced Engineering Analysis

Unit code: NEM4202 | Study level: Undergraduate

Credit points

(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)

Location

Footscray Park

Prerequisites

NEM3101 - Engineering Analysis and Modelling

Completion of 288 credit points of NHEM

(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)

Overview

This unit develops students’ capability to analyse, design, and optimise automatic control systems within mechanical engineering contexts. Students will explore both open- and closed-loop control systems, applying theoretical and practical understanding of system modelling, stability analysis, transient and frequency responses, and feedback control strategies. Using tools such as Laplace transforms, transfer functions, and root locus techniques, students will learn to design stable and responsive controllers for a range of engineering applications. Emphasis is placed on collaboration, analytical reasoning, and the use of modern software tools to model and evaluate system performance, preparing students to address complex engineering challenges with technical competence and professional judgement.

Learning Outcomes

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

Elucidate the design process for a control system and analyse its behaviour;
Develop and justify appropriate mathematical model for dynamical and control systems;
Analyse the performance and stability of single-input – single-output electromechanical systems;
Design, evaluate and optimise real-time feedback control systems using Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) control strategies; and
Collaborate effectively to implement and evaluate real-time feedback control systems on an electro-mechanical device, demonstrating professional teamwork and communication skills.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Test

Grade: 40%

Two in-class invigilated tests on control system theory and stability analysis (Individual) (60 mins each, 20% each)

Assessment type: Project

Grade: 60%

Project-based report and implementation of real-time feedback control system (30%). Presentation (30%, 20 mins) (Group)

The project is a hurdle assessment as it is the only task that assesses LO 4 and 5. This knowledge and skills are key competencies.

Test: All tests are conducted under secure invigilation conditions. Students complete two tests assessing understanding and application of dynamic system modelling, control theory, and performance analysis.

Project: The group project is monitored through milestone submissions, facilitator checkpoints, and authenticated oral presentations to confirm each student’s contribution and understanding. Explicit evaluation of individual contributions further supports the secure assessment and assurance of each student’s achievement of learning outcomes. Students collaborate to design, implement, and evaluate a real-time feedback control system, producing a detailed technical report and presentation demonstrating integration of theoretical and practical control concepts.

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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