ME 128: Computer-Aided Mechanical Design (3 units)
CATALOG DESCRIPTION
| Introduction to design (not drafting) via computers. Using MATLAB software on X-windows workstations, the student will be introduced to a variety of mechanical design techniques and apply those techniques to the design of beams, automobile engine components, planar machine elements, linkages, and flexure hinges. These techniques include ad-hoc methods, exhaustive numeration, grid studies, and informal optimizations. |
102B, Engineering 28, Civil Engineering 130, and Mathematics 53, 54, or consent of instructor.
TEXTBOOK(S) AND/OR OTHER REQUIRED MATERIAL
COURSE OBJECTIVES
Introduction to the use of computer and software as tools to
solve engineering problems in a creative and efficient manner.
DESIRED COURSE OUTCOMES
After taking this course, Students should be able to perform practical design optimizations for a large class of practical and common problems using software tools. Specific examples are used in class, but these examples can be easily applied to other common problems.
TOPICS COVERED
Interactive Computation, Computer Graphics,
Finite Element Tools, Parametric Design, Optimal Design
CLASS/LABORATORY SCHEDULE
Three hours of lecture and one hour of discussion per week.
CONTRIBUTION OF THE COURSE TO MEETING THE
PROFESSIONAL COMPONENT
The course aims to provide students with computer aided design skills including using computer graphics to design structures, converting analytical models with computational analyses and using computational tools to predict structural outputs in terms of material, mechanics, heat and other physical variables. Students will understand and appreciate how such optimization tools can be used to simplify the analysis, and enhance the performance, of a design.
RELATIONSHIP OF THE COURSE TO ABET PROGRAM OUTCOMES
(a) An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering;
(c) an ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs;
(e) an ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems;
(i) a recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning;
(j) a knowledge of contemporary issues;
(k) an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary
for engineering practice.
ASSESSMENT OF STUDENT PROGRESS TOWARD COURSE OBJECTIVES
Weekly homework assignments, and a final project that
allows students to demonstrate their expertise with the design and analysis tools presented by designing/solving a practical project either suggested by the instructor or provided by student but with approval of the instructor.
PERSON(S) WHO PREPARED THIS DESCRIPTION:
Liwei Lin
