Fundamentals of Engineering Design

Objectives of the course

This module will impart basic knowledge for the engineering and design behind technical products in mechanical engineering. The goal is to convey to the students a basic understanding of the relations between the structure of real technical systems and the use of easy machine elements as well as the design, dimensioning, and composition.
Furthermore, calculation models for functional properties and strength properties of machine elements will be taught. The lecture wants to arouse interest for probably the most creative and inventive engineering activity – design engineering!
The students will be put in the position to develop and understand standard-conforming technical drawings as well as to apply and develop functional machine elements of limited complexity (screws, bolts, rivets, shafts, and springs) and to measure and calculate properly proportioned for stress and strain.

Content

Introduction into design theory
Basics of composition
Properly proportioned for stress and strain measuring and calculating
Springs, shafts and axes
Detachable connections
Unbreakable Links
Pipes, Containers, and armatures
Seal technology

Structure

The module “Basics of Design” consists of the events:

Basics of Design – Lecture
Basics of Design – Tutorial
Design Exercise 1 and CAD, or Technical Drawing and CAD – Practical Exercise

Latest information

More information for the procedure can be found on the StudIP event website.

Exam date: 2027-03-09, 08.00 a.m.

StudIP – Lecture

StudIP – Tutorial

StudIP – Practical Exercise

Dates

The course takes place during the summer semester.

The students will learn in the lecture the foundation to achieve the qualification goals. Theoretical content is conveyed through current research projects as well as experience from the industry. The reference toward specific example products will be produced through the usage of a variety of exhibits.

The students will apply their knowledge over machine elements as well as basic design processes acquired from the lecture and exercise on simple design engineering tasks. After completing the practical exercises the students will be capable to design simple assemblies and to understand as well as to prepare the technical documentation in the form of standardized technical drawings, part lists and production drawings.

With the examination, the contents of the lecture and the exercise are questioned in from of knowledge and comprehension questions as well as arithmetic tasks.
Type: exam
Time: 120 min

Academic performance is assessed on the basis of the successful completion of term-long assignments in the areas of technical drawing, the standardised representation of technical components and assemblies, and the design of components and assemblies using CAD software. This takes place as part of the practical module ‘Design Exercise 1 and CAD’ or ‘Technical Drawing and CAD’. The distinction depends on the specific degree programme and will be explained during the course.
Type: Designs and drawings on paper and using CAD as homework
Time: During the Semester