Introduction

Mechanical engineering is one of the oldest and most versatile branches of engineering, encompassing everything from designing mechanical systems and developing new technologies to improving existing products and manufacturing processes. This course provides a foundational understanding of mechanical engineering principles and offers an introduction to core topics like statics, dynamics, thermodynamics, materials science, and mechanical system design. It is designed for individuals looking to explore the field of mechanical engineering or those considering pursuing a career in manufacturing, automation, energy, aerospace, or automotive sectors. By the end of the course, participants will be well-prepared to dive deeper into specialized mechanical engineering topics and begin applying their knowledge in real-world settings.

Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will:

1. Understand the basic principles of mechanical engineering and its applications in various industries.
2. Learn foundational concepts in statics, dynamics, thermodynamics, and materials science.
3. Explore the mechanics of materials and how to analyze forces and stresses in solid structures.
4. Understand the fundamental laws of thermodynamics and how they apply to engineering systems.
5. Get an introduction to mechanical system design and the engineering design process.
6. Familiarize themselves with modern tools and techniques used in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and simulation.
7. Apply theoretical knowledge to simple mechanical engineering problems through hands-on exercises.

Who Should Attend?

This course is ideal for:

• Aspiring Mechanical Engineers looking to enter the field and understand its core principles.
• Engineering Students who want to strengthen their foundation in mechanical engineering.
• Professionals from Other Engineering Disciplines interested in expanding their knowledge of mechanical systems.
• Technicians & Designers who work with mechanical systems and wish to gain a deeper understanding of their design and functionality.
• Industry Professionals looking to transition into roles that involve mechanical design, maintenance, or analysis.

Course Outline

Day 1: Introduction to Mechanical Engineering and Statics

• Module 1.1: Overview of Mechanical Engineering

  • What is Mechanical Engineering?
  • Core branches of mechanical engineering: manufacturing, thermal systems, mechanical design, etc.
  • Applications of mechanical engineering in industries like automotive, aerospace, energy, and biomechanics.

• Module 1.2: Basic Concepts in Statics

  • Forces, moments, and equilibrium
  • Analyzing static structures using free body diagrams
  • Introduction to force vectors, reaction forces, and simple trusses

• Module 1.3: Hands-On Session

  • Solving basic static equilibrium problems
  • Use of simulation software to analyze static structures (e.g., AutoCAD or SolidWorks basics)

Day 2: Dynamics and Kinematics

• Module 2.1: Introduction to Dynamics

  • Kinematics of motion: speed, velocity, and acceleration
  • Newton’s Laws of Motion and their application in mechanical systems
  • Work, energy, and power in mechanical systems

• Module 2.2: Kinematics of Rigid Bodies

  • Rotational motion and angular velocity
  • Introduction to kinematic chains and mechanisms (gears, cams, etc.)
  • Linkage analysis and the motion of parts in mechanical systems

• Module 2.3: Hands-On Session

  • Kinematic simulations of a simple gear mechanism
  • Dynamics analysis of moving parts and linkages using basic software tools

Day 3: Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics

• Module 3.1: Introduction to Thermodynamics

  • The laws of thermodynamics: energy conservation and entropy
  • Heat engines, refrigeration cycles, and entropy
  • Energy conversion: from heat to mechanical work

• Module 3.2: Fluid Mechanics

  • Basic principles of fluid statics and dynamics
  • Introduction to Bernoulli’s principle and its applications
  • Overview of pumps, turbines, and fluid systems

• Module 3.3: Hands-On Session

  • Thermodynamics simulations using real-world heat engine cycles
  • Fluid flow analysis through pipes and valves using simulation software (e.g., ANSYS Fluent)

Day 4: Materials Science and Manufacturing Processes

• Module 4.1: Introduction to Materials Science

  • Types of materials used in mechanical engineering: metals, polymers, ceramics, composites
  • Material properties: tensile strength, hardness, ductility, and fatigue
  • Selection of materials based on engineering requirements

• Module 4.2: Manufacturing Processes

  • Casting, welding, machining, and additive manufacturing (3D printing)
  • Manufacturing planning and cost estimation
  • Overview of modern manufacturing techniques and their integration into production systems

• Module 4.3: Hands-On Session

  • Material testing: basic hardness and tensile testing methods
  • Designing a simple mechanical component using CAD software

Day 5: Mechanical System Design and CAD

• Module 5.1: Introduction to Mechanical System Design

  • The design process: from concept to prototype
  • Importance of design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA)
  • Role of optimization in mechanical design

• Module 5.2: Introduction to Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

  • Overview of CAD tools (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, CATIA)
  • 3D modeling and assembly in mechanical engineering
  • Introduction to finite element analysis (FEA) for design validation

• Module 5.3: Hands-On Session

  • Creating 3D models and assemblies using CAD software
  • Simulating a mechanical system for stress and displacement using FEA

Prerequisites

• Basic knowledge of high school mathematics (algebra, trigonometry) and physics (mechanics)
• Familiarity with basic engineering concepts (recommended but not required)

Course Takeaways

✅ Foundational knowledge of mechanical engineering principles
✅ Hands-on experience with CAD, simulation tools, and mechanical systems design
✅ Practical understanding of statics, dynamics, thermodynamics, and materials
✅ Introduction to real-world manufacturing and engineering design processes
✅ Preparedness for advanced mechanical engineering topics