MECH 412- Machine Design II

Spring 2024
Assignment # 1 (CLO 6)
Due on: Tuesday January 23, 2024

The purpose of this assignment is to explore the broader aspects of the Machine Design course.
The questions are open-ended and you will need to search the information from various sources
including the internet. You will need to read Chapter 1 of the course textbook and the Course
Syllabus posted on your Blackboard.

Questions.

1. Define machine design.

The process of creating and optimizing mechanical systems to perform specific functions,
considering factors such as functionality, material selection, structural integrity, and
manufacturability.

2. Give a brief description of the machine design process

Machine design is the engineering process of conceptualizing, specifying, and refining
mechanical systems, ensuring they meet defined functions while considering factors like
material selection, structural integrity, and ease of manufacturing.

3. What is the final outcome of a machine design process?

The final outcome of a machine design process is a detailed and optimized set of plans,
specifications, and drawings that guide the fabrication and assembly of a mechanical
system, ensuring it meets its intended functions and performance criteria.

4. It is said that mechanical design is a complex process, requiring many skills. List as many as
you can of the skills required for a successful machine design task that involves design of a
mechanical system and its elements.
Engineering Knowledge: A strong understanding of fundamental engineering principles and
concepts.
Creativity: The ability to generate innovative and effective solutions to design challenges.
Analytical Skills: Capability to analyze and solve complex engineering problems.
Material Science: Knowledge of materials and their properties for appropriate selection.
CAD: Skill in using computer-aided design (CAD) software for modeling and drafting.
Kinematics and Dynamics: Understanding of motion, forces, and energy within mechanical systems.
Thermodynamics: Knowledge of heat transfer and energy conversion principles.
Structural Analysis: Ability to analyze and design structures for strength and stability.
Manufacturing Processes: Familiarity with various fabrication methods and their implications on
design.
5. List the resources available to support the mechanical design process.
At UAEU, they provide us with great tools to learn mechanical design. We have high-tech
labs with expensive machines, and they give us software for free that you can't find
anywhere else. Plus, there are knowledgeable engineers and teachers from all over the
world who are always ready to help us out.

6. For the skills listed in answering Question 4, (a) describe your readiness in facing the tasks
required for the Machine Design II course; and (b) outline the measures you would take in
case you find yourself lacking in some skills or base concepts.
(a) Readiness for Machine Design II Course:
Engineering Knowledge: I have a solid foundation in fundamental engineering principles and
concepts from my previous coursework and practical applications.
Creativity: I am comfortable thinking outside the box and have successfully applied creative
solutions to design challenges in past projects.
Analytical Skills: My experience in engineering projects has honed my analytical skills, enabling me
to tackle complex problems effectively.
Material Science: I possess a good understanding of material properties and their applications,
acquired through coursework and hands-on projects.
CAD: I am proficient in using CAD software, having successfully utilized it in previous design projects.
Kinematics and Dynamics: I have a comprehensive understanding of motion, forces, and energy in
mechanical systems based on my coursework and practical experience.
Thermodynamics: I am knowledgeable about heat transfer and energy conversion principles, having
completed relevant coursework.
Structural Analysis: I have experience in analyzing and designing structures for strength and
stability through coursework and project work.
Manufacturing Processes: I am familiar with various fabrication methods and understand their
implications on design, thanks to both theoretical learning and practical applications.

(b) Measures for Skill Improvement:

Identify Weaknesses: Regular self-assessment to identify any weaknesses or gaps in understanding.
Additional Courses or Workshops: Enroll in additional courses or workshops to strengthen skills in
areas where improvement is needed.
Seek Guidance: Approach professors, mentors, or experienced professionals for guidance and
clarification on challenging topics.
Practice and Projects: Engage in practical projects or design exercises to apply and reinforce
theoretical knowledge.
Online Resources: Utilize online resources such as tutorials, forums, and educational platforms to
supplement learning and gain practical insights.
Collaborate with Peers: Collaborate with classmates or colleagues to learn from their strengths and
share knowledge in areas where you may need improvement.
Continuous Learning: Stay updated with industry trends and advancements through continuous
learning and reading relevant literature.
Feedback Incorporation: Actively seek and incorporate feedback on design projects to enhance
skills and address specific areas of improvement.
7. Explain why is the design engineer required to cultivate a strong sense of responsibility and
professional work ethics apart from his/her skills competence?
A design engineer needs a strong sense of responsibility and good work ethics because it
ensures safety, reliability, and client trust in their work. It also helps build a positive
professional reputation, fosters teamwork, and ensures compliance with regulations,
leading to project success and personal growth.

8. Go to the Internet and connect to the website of the Society of Engineers – UAE (SOEUAE)
(https://www.soeuae.ae/en/Default.aspx). Read the passages on Foundation & Development
and Objectives of SOEUAE and briefly discuss your finding.
Established in 1979 during a period of economic growth in the UAE, the Society of
Engineers - UAE was founded to unite and support all engineers. With a current
membership of 36,000, the society actively contributes to enhancing engineering standards,
engaging in global collaborations, and providing education and support to engineers
across the UAE. Its multifaceted approach includes participating in international engineering
associations, collaborating with government bodies, and establishing various committees
and centres, such as the Training & Development Centre and Arbitration Centre, reflecting
its commitment to the continuous advancement of the engineering profession in the
country.

9. Read through the SOEUAE code of ethics

(https://www.soeuae.ae/en/Magazine/CE/code%20of%20ethics.pdf) and briefly discuss your
findings.
Engineers in the UAE are guided by a code of ethics that emphasizes responsibility to
society, integrity in professional practices, loyalty to employers, and a commitment to public
safety and environmental protection. The code promotes honesty, transparency, and
excellence in engineering while encouraging engineers to contribute to their communities
and prioritize sustainable development.

10. Go to the Internet and connect to the American National Society of Professional Engineers
(NSPE) website (www.nspe.org/ethics). Read the complete NSPE Code of Ethics for
Engineers and discuss your findings on how it compares with SOEUAE code of ethics.
Both the UAE Code of Ethics for Engineers and the NSPE Code of Ethics want engineers to
be honest, act with integrity, and protect the public. They both say engineers should work
for the benefit of society and follow safety standards.
The UAE Code talks about specific responsibilities for projects in the UAE, like being clear
about project details and following government rules. The NSPE Code is more general,
covering things like being good at your job, keeping information private, and acting
professionally. Even though they share similar ideas, the NSPE Code goes into more specific
rules about how engineers should behave. Each code is influenced by the area it's made for,
so they might have some differences.