WM1AC-15 Mechanisms and Machines
Introductory description
Electromechanical systems are required to move, exert force or energy on their surroundings, and do so in a controlled manner.
This module deals with the first of those challenges by introducing the principles of motion, the devices that are used to create motion in engineering systems, and the parameters needed to select these.
Module aims
Apply engineering mechanics and mathematical knowledge to analyse and solve broadly-defined engineering design problems with respect to mechanisms employed in electromechanical systems.
Learners will develop knowledge of fundamental kinematics, mechanics and the underpinning mathematics to analyse typical mechanisms employed in electromechanical systems. Common actuators will be introduced and learners will develop the ability to select actuators and apply actuators and mechanisms according to defined machine design requirements.
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
Kinematics of linkages:
- Case study applications
- Classifications of linkages
Static Mechanics
- Force Vectors
- Forces and Moments
Kinetic analysis (Newton 2nd Law of Motion):
- Forces, moments
- Free body diagrams, equilibrium
Principle of Impulse and Momentum
- Planar Kinematics of Rigid Body Motion
- Planar Kinetics of a Rigid Body (Newton 2nd Law of Motion)
Introduce Mechancial aspects of Hardware:
- Linear and rotary electrical servos
- Actuator selection methodologies
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Describe basic applications and classifications of electromechanical mechanisms [AHEP:4-C2].
- Apply kinematic principles to describe the motion of broadly-defined 1-2 dimensional mechanical systems [AHEP:4-C1, C3].
- Apply kinetic principles to describe the forces acting on broadly-defined 1-2 dimensional static and dynamic systems [AHEP:4-C1, C3].
- Identify and select common electrical actuators that meet the kinematic and kinetic requirements of broadly-defined mechanical systems [AHEP:4-C12].
Indicative reading list
Hibbeler, R. C. (2017). Engineering mechanics: dynamics in SI units (Fourteenth, global). Pearson.
Hibbeler, R. C. (2019). Statics and mechanics of materials (Fifth in SI units.;Global;). Pearson Education Limited.
De Silva, C. W. (2010). Mechatronics: a foundation course. CRC Press.
Subject specific skills
Basic trigonometric functions, sine and cosine laws.
Pythagoras' Theorem
Properties of a linear function
Solve quadratic equation.
Centre of Gravity of basic geometrical shapes (rectangle, right triangle)
Vectors Operations, Addition of Forces, Dot Product, Cross Product
Matrices (Determinants)
Calculus Differentiation, Total Derivative, and Properties of differentiation
Build a basic understanding of the maths and physics involved in the concepts of motion, force, torque, energy, power and the specification of electromechanical systems.
Transferable skills
This module will contribute to the development of the following from the Warwick Core Skills framework:
Critical Thinking: Interpreting, analysing
Digital literacy: IT skills
Problem Solving: Problem creation
Teamworking: Collaboration
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 12 sessions of 1 hour (8%) |
| Seminars | 12 sessions of 1 hour (8%) |
| Practical classes | 6 sessions of 1 hour (4%) |
| Online learning (independent) | 30 sessions of 1 hour (20%) |
| Private study | 30 hours (20%) |
| Assessment | 60 hours (40%) |
| Total | 150 hours |
Private study description
Online learning (independent): Engagement with provided study materials and signposted resources - review, interpretation and application to example problems and case studies.
Private study: Creation of own study materials - e.g. notes, flashcards, summaries, etc.
Engagement with self-identified materials - industry reports, technical videos, podcasts, journal articles, etc.
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group A
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
Assessment component |
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| Assessment 1 | 30% | 18 hours | No |
|
Computer-based exam of device classifications, kinematic and kinetic theory and calculations. |
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Reassessment component is the same |
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Assessment component |
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| Assessment 2 | 70% | 42 hours | Yes (extension) |
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Individual report based on group laboratory activity measuring the forces acting on kinematic mechanisms to select appropriate hardware. |
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Reassessment component is the same |
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Feedback on assessment
Formative: Verbal feedback during interactive class sessions and practical sessions; (Automated) individual feedback for computer-based tests; Verbal feedback during ad hoc meetings.
Summative: Cohort level summary feedback for formal tests / exams; Written feedback and marks aligned with University 20 point marking scale.
There is currently no information about the courses for which this module is core or optional.