The course is based on problem solving. An existing product is used as example throughout the course and most assignments concern analyses and redesign of this product.
Topics treated are:
• failure mechanisms in mechanical components;
• analyses of the forces in a mechanical product;
• dynamic loading; periodic loading; transients.
• fatigue: standard analysis; cumulative fatigue damage theory;
• standard design methods for components, such as gears;
• advanced analysis of a components strength and optimization of its weight;
• modeling of non-standard components;
• the use of bearing design analogies applied for other components.
A student that has completed the course shall:
• have a good ability to use knowledge from basic subjects, such as mathematics, mechanics and solid mechanics, in the design of machine components;
• be able to calculate deformations and stresses in bending of short and thick beams;
• be able to perform fatigue analyses using the theory of cumulative fatigue damages;
• be able to describe common failure mechanisms which are limiting the performance of a product;
• be able to calculate the degree of efficiency of a product;
• be trained in using international standards when designing standard components;
• be able to use and evaluate analytical and numerical methods from solid mechanics when designing components and also be able to judge the validity of the methods;
• be able to create own models that describe the function of non-standard components and use the models to optimize the performance of the component;
• be able to apply knowledge about bearing design on components with similar contact conditions as in a bearing.