Course Title: Automotive Research Project

Part A: Course Overview

Course Title: Automotive Research Project

Credit Points: 24.00

Terms

Course Code	Campus	Career	School	Learning Mode	Teaching Period(s)
AUTO1035	City Campus	Postgraduate	115H Aerospace, Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering	Face-to-Face	Sem 1 2009, Sem 2 2009, Sem 1 2010, Sem 2 2010, Sem 1 2011, Sem 2 2011, Sem 1 2012, Sem 2 2012, Sem 1 2013, Sem 2 2013, Sem 1 2014

Course Coordinator: Professor Reza Jazar

Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 99256110

Course Coordinator Email: reza.jazar@rmit.edu.au

Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities

Automotive Project 1 and 2

Course Description

This course is taken in the final semester of MC160. It constitutes the major research project work activity for the program. The course is designed to consolidate and expand the knowledge gained throughout the program through an in-depth study of a highly technical automotive application.

The broad objective of the project course is to provide you with an opportunity to develop analytical and critical thinking skills and apply the knowledge and skills you developed in your program to the engineering solution of a relevant, substantial problem related to an automotive application in a timely and economic manner.

You will initially be introduced to Engineering research tools and methods. You will then conduct a comprehensive review of the body of knowledge for the proposed research. This review will form a significant part of the course requirements. The major project work involves developing, managing and achieving the objectives of a research project related to a specialized area of the automotive industry.

Following are examples of areas in which the research project can be conducted:
• development of experimental models
• development of computational models
• execution of a detailed feasibility study
• design, manufacture and testing of a device or a system

You will work on projects individually or in small groups; however, you will have a specific role in the project and will submit individual work for assessment.
You will be allocated a first and a second supervisor.

Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development

In summary this course develops the following capabilities:

• Problem solving and decision making
• Advanced technical competence
• Working in teams and professional networks
• Leadership
• Research
• International and cultural awareness

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course you will be able to consolidate and expand the knowledge you gained throughout the program through an in-depth study of a highly technical automotive application.

Specifically, you will be able to
• carry out a major independent automotive-related research project in an automotive specialized field of your choice such as: the design, manufacture and testing of a device or system; development of experimental and/or computational models; or the execution of a detailed feasibility study.
• carry out a major independent project activity which involves defining project objectives, preparation of a project plan and a bar chart showing the various stages for completion.
• carry out literature research related to the project context.
• develop in-depth technical competence in at least one automotive engineering discipline.
• apply knowledge of automotive engineering fundamentals and appropriate analytical techniques to a substantial automotive design / manufacturing problem.
• undertake problem identification, formulation and solution
• utilize a systems approach to design and operational performance.
• engage in design and execute designs to an appropriate professional standard.
• function effectively as an individual and in multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams, with the capacity to be a leader or manager as well as an effective team member.
• communicate effectively, not only with engineers but also with the community at large.
• develop understanding of the social, cultural, global and environmental responsibilities of the professional Engineer, and the principles of sustainable design and development.
• recognize and commit to professional and ethical responsibilities.
• present the main features and findings of a project both visually and orally.
• compile and present your findings in a thesis of a high standard using appropriate structure and referencing.

Overview of Learning Activities

Project based learning.

Lectures.

Team meetings

Meetings with project supervisors.

Focused research

Thesis Writing

Presentation of project

Overview of Learning Resources

Microsoft Project or similar software for the purposes of project management.

Specific texts and/or reference books

Journal papers and other relevant published articles

Analytical software, dependent on individual project area.

Overview of Assessment

Assessment in this course is based on the following tasks:
1. Weekly progress report.
You will be required to present the main progress in your project, weekly.
2. Minor Thesis
You will be required to compile and present your findings in a thesis of a high standard using appropriate structure and referencing.
3. Individual Presentation
You will be required to present the main features and findings of your project both visually and orally
Assessment of the presentation will be done by supervisor/s, and classmates