Unit Catalogue

Back to Unit Search

ENG586 - Machine Design

2026

Sector

Higher Education

Discipline

Engineering

Credit Points

Unit Level

500

Equivalent Units

(ENG486)

Prerequisites

Incompatible

Coerequisites

Assumed Knowledge

ENG212, ENG338 or equivalent

Unit Description

The unit involves students designing a machine based on industry standards. The design exercise will take into account safety, reliability and efficiency standards and will cover costings through life-cycle analysis, fabrication methods and appropriate material selection. Factors such as maintainability, sustainability and human factors will be considered in depth. Appropriate documentation, development and application of project management techniques will form part of the exercise. The unit will also cover fatigue and failure theories and fracture mechanics and will review design of machine elements. Students will develop skills to evaluate different aspects of machine design, including project management and environmental impact. The unit involves 3D printing of a small-scale model of machine designed using CAD software.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1.	Design complex machines based on elements of drives, elements of joining, elements of power transmitters and applying project management principles.
2.	Apply international and national industry standards to the design of machines.
3.	Critically evaluate the economics based on life-cycle of machines and on fracture mechanics, appropriate material selection and fabrication methods.
4.	Design machines taking into account sustainability, maintainability and human aspects.
5.	Demonstrate effective oral and written communication, that conveys ideas, design principles and technical information.

Assessment Overview

	Assessment Task	Value (of total mark)	Related Learning Outcome/s
1.	Quiz (1 hour)	10%	1,2,3,4
2.	Individual Report (80 pages, plus calculations, drawings and associated files and/or 3D printed objects).	40%	1,2,3,4,5
3.	Design options oral presentation (5 minutes)	10%	1,2,5
4.	Final Exam (2 hours)	40%	1,2,3,4,5

Unit Availability

Year	Semester	Att Mode	Location	Learning Method	Timetable*
2026	Semester 1	Internal	Casuarina Campus	OLR	View
2026	Semester 1	External	External Studies	OLR	View

* Timetable will be displayed in new tab or window depending on your browser's configuration; ensure Pop-ups are allowed for this site to view the timetable.

OLR: Internet access is required for this unit as students are required to access study materials provided on-line through Learnline. Please log into Learnline on the first day of each teaching period. For more information about Learnline, please click here.

Critical Dates

Important Dates for Students

Fee Information:
Fees and Payments
Student Services and Amenities Fees
2026 Domestic Unit Fees (PDF)
2026 Incidental Fees (PDF)