Original source · Published 1999 · Updated September 2011

1 The Higher School Certificate program of study

The purpose of the Higher School Certificate program of study is to:

provide a curriculum structure which encourages students to complete secondary education
foster the intellectual, social and moral development of students, in particular developing their:
knowledge, skills, understanding and attitudes in the fields of study they choose
capacity to manage their own learning
desire to continue learning in formal or informal settings after school
capacity to work together with others
respect for the cultural diversity of Australian society
- provide a flexible structure within which students can prepare for:
further education and training
employment
full and active participation as citizens
- provide formal assessment and certification of students’ achievements
- provide a context within which schools also have the opportunity to foster students’ physical and spiritual development.

2 Rationale for Engineering Studies in Stage 6 Curriculum

In the 21st century, engineering will continue to be directed towards developing insight and understanding to the provision of infrastructure, goods and services needed for industry and the community.

The role of engineers includes formulating problems, providing solutions and integrating technical understanding. The profession has a duty to take responsible approaches to wealth creation, to be ethical in their practices and to promote sustainability. With such key responsibilities, communication, synthesis and analysis of information, management skills and teamwork are becoming increasingly important.

Professional engineering work is concerned with cost-effective, timely, reliable, safe, aesthetically pleasing and environmentally sustainable outcomes as well as maintaining a consciousness of ideals associated with social and ethical responsibilities and service.

The Engineering Studies Stage 6 Syllabus is directed towards the development and application of mathematical, scientific and technological skills and their integration with business and management. It provides students with skills, knowledge and understanding associated with a study of engineering, its practices and associated methodologies. The subject promotes environmental, economic and global awareness, problem-solving ability, engagement with information technology, self-directed learning, communication, management and skills in working as a team.

The Engineering Studies Stage 6 Syllabus is unique in that it develops knowledge and understanding of the profession of engineering. It also provides an opportunity to integrate the science and mathematics disciplines with societal development and change. The syllabus is inclusive of the needs, interests and aspirations of all students and provides opportunities and challenges to deal with engineering concepts.

Students undertaking Engineering Studies Stage 6 will have the opportunity to follow a number of pathways. These include tertiary study, vocational education and training, and the world of work. For those following a pathway of further study, the insight and experience associated with a study of engineering will be beneficial in their presumed knowledge of the area of study. Students entering into the world of work will benefit from understanding what engineers do, as the work of engineers affects us all.

3 Continuum of learning for Engineering Studies Stage 6 students

4 Aim

The aim of the Engineering Studies Stage 6 Syllabus is to develop students’ understanding and appreciation of the nature, significance and methodology of engineering and its impact on society.

5 Objectives

Students will develop:

1 understanding of the scope of engineering and the role of the engineer

2 knowledge and understanding of engineering principles and an appreciation of the responsibilities of engineers in society

3 communication skills appropriate to engineering practices

4 knowledge and understanding of developments in technology and an appreciation of their influence on people and engineering practice

5 management and problem-solving skills in engineering contexts

6 skills in the application of engineering methodology.

6 Course structure

The Engineering Studies Stage 6 Syllabus comprises a Preliminary course made up of four compulsory modules (three application modules and one focus module), and an HSC course made up of four compulsory modules (two application modules and two focus modules).

Engineering Studies syllabus structure

Preliminary modules HSC modules

\120 hours indicative time \120 hours indicative time

Note: The modules in the Preliminary course have been designed to progressively develop knowledge, understandings and skills, commencing with Engineering fundamentals module 1 and concluding with Biomedical engineering module 4.

* Each module is 30 hours indicative time

6.1 Modules

A module is a discrete unit of study that integrates knowledge and understanding of various elements of engineering.

Types of modules

Two types of modules are used to facilitate learning in the course. These are engineering application modules and engineering focus modules.

Engineering application modules develops knowledge and understanding of engineering concepts and impacts through the study of engineered products.

Engineering focus modules develops knowledge and appreciation of the role of engineers by studying the nature of the engineering profession and emphasising the scope of engineering activities in a given field.

6.2 The Engineering Report

In the engineering profession, an Engineering Report contributes to effective management, communication, decision-making and teamwork by providing a synthesis of the various elements that are relevant to a given project. The report can be developed by individuals or collaboratively as a team.

An Engineering Report can be developed for a new project that involves the synthesis of a new design, or it can be prepared as a result of the analysis of an existing engineering application. Engineering Reports may be related to individual components, complex engineered products or engineered systems.

The process of reporting on investigation and practical activities in this course will be through the preparation of Engineering Reports.

In the Preliminary course students will learn to understand the significance of an Engineering Report and then develop an Engineering Report. Students are first required to produce a component of an Engineering Report in Engineering application module 3, Braking systems, before producing a complete Engineering Report in Engineering focus module 4, Biomedical engineering.

In the HSC course students must produce one Engineering Report from either of the two Engineering application modules of Civil structures or Personal and public transport, and one from either of the two engineering focus modules of Aeronautical engineering or Telecommunications engineering.

Reports will be less detailed in the Preliminary course than those required for the HSC course. Engineering Reports may include:

introduction to the purpose of the report
appropriate research
analysis/synthesis of related issues
conclusions and/or recommendations
references.

Reports developed in the HSC course should encompass a degree of both analysis and synthesis of relevant content, and reflect actual engineering practice.

One Engineering Report from the Preliminary course and one Engineering Report from the HSC course must be the result of collaborative work, reflecting the importance of teamwork to successful engineering projects.

7 Objectives and outcomes

7.1 Table of objectives and outcomes

Objectives	Preliminary course outcomes	HSC course outcomes
Students will develop:	A student:	A student:
1. understanding of the scope of engineering and the role of the engineer	P1.1 identifies the scope of engineering and recognises current innovations	H1.1 describes the scope of engineering and critically analyses current innovations
	P1.2 explains the relationship between properties, structure, uses and applications of materials in engineering	H1.2 differentiates between the properties and structure of materials and justifies the selection of materials in engineering applications
2. knowledge and understanding of engineering principles and an appreciation of the responsibilities of engineers in society	P2.1 describes the types of materials, components and processes and explains their implications for engineering development	H2.1 determines suitable properties, uses and applications of materials, components and processes in engineering
2. knowledge and understanding of engineering principles and an appreciation of the responsibilities of engineers in society	P2.2 describes the nature of engineering in specific fields and its importance to society	H2.2 analyses and synthesises engineering applications in specific fields and reports on the importance of these to society
3. communication skills appropriate to engineering practices	P3.1 uses mathematical, scientific and graphical methods to solve problems of engineering practice	H3.1 demonstrates proficiency in the use of mathematical, scientific and graphical methods to analyse and solve problems of engineering practice
	P3.2 develops written, oral and presentation skills and applies these to engineering reports	H3.2 uses appropriate written, oral and presentation skills in the preparation of detailed engineering reports
	P3.3 applies graphics as a communication tool	H3.3 develops and uses specialised techniques in the application of graphics as a communication tool

Objectives	Preliminary course outcomes	HSC course outcomes
Students will develop:	A student:	A student:
4. knowledge and understanding of developments in technology and an appreciation of their influence on people and engineering practice	P4.1 describes developments in technology and their impact on engineering products	H4.1 investigates the extent of technological change in engineering
4. knowledge and understanding of developments in technology and an appreciation of their influence on people and engineering practice	P4.2 describes the influence of technological change on engineering and its effect on people	H4.2 applies knowledge of history and technological change to engineering-based problems
4. knowledge and understanding of developments in technology and an appreciation of their influence on people and engineering practice	P4.3 identifies the social, environmental and cultural implications of technological change in engineering	H4.3 applies understanding of social, environmental and cultural implications of technological change in engineering to the analysis of specific engineering problems
5. management and problem-solving in engineering contexts	P5.1 demonstrates the ability to work both individually and in teams	H5.1 works individually and in teams to solve specific engineering problems and prepare engineering reports
	P5.2 applies management and planning skills related to engineering	H5.2 selects and uses appropriate management and planning skills related to engineering
6. skills in the application of engineering methodology	P6.1 applies knowledge and skills in research and problem-solving related to engineering	H6.1 demonstrates skills in research and problem-solving related to engineering
	P6.2 applies skills in analysis, synthesis and experimentation related to engineering	H6.2 demonstrates skills in analysis, synthesis and experimentation related to engineering

7.2 Key competencies

The Engineering Studies Stage 6 Syllabus provides a context within which to develop general competencies considered essential for the acquisition of effective, higher-order thinking skills necessary for further education, work and everyday life.

Key competencies are embedded in the Engineering Studies Stage 6 Syllabus to enhance student learning. The key competencies of collecting, analysing and organising information and communicating ideas and information reflect core processes of inquiry and reporting which are explicit in the objectives and outcomes of Engineering Studies. The other key competencies are developed through the methodologies of the syllabus and through classroom pedagogy. Students work as individuals and as members of groups to conduct investigations into engineered products and systems and through this, the key competencies planning and organising activities and working with others and in teams are developed. When students solve problems related to engineering and analyse data they become competent in using mathematical ideas and techniques. When students analyse, synthesise and report on engineered products and systems they will be involved in a specific study and application of a range of technologies and they will develop competency in using technology. Finally, the exploration of issues and investigation of the nature of engineered products and systems contributes towards the students’ development of the key competency solving problems.

8 Content: Engineering Studies Preliminary course

Engineering application module 1: Engineering fundamentals

30 hours indicative time

This module develops an understanding of the basic principles associated with engineering. Examples can be used to explain these principles without this knowledge being applied to a specific component, product or system.

A student:

P1.2 explains the relationship between properties, structure, uses and applications of materials in engineering

P2.1 describes the types of materials, components and processes and explains their implications for engineering development

P3.1 uses mathematical, scientific and graphical methods to solve problems of engineering practice

P3.3 applies graphics as a communication tool

P4.1 describes developments in technology and their impact on engineering products

P4.2 describes the influence of technological change on engineering and its effect on people

P4.3 identifies the social, environmental and cultural implications of technological change in engineering.

Students learn about:

Students learn to:

Students learn about:

Areas of engineering practice
nature and range of the work of engineers
Historical and societal influences
historical developments of engineering
effect of engineering innovation on people’s lives
Engineering mechanics
mass and force
scalar and vector quantities
simple machines
levers, inclined plane, screws, wheel and axle, pulley systems and gears
Engineering materials
classification of materials
properties of materials
physical and mechanical properties
structure of materials
atomic structure
bonding
crystalline and non-crystalline structure
metals
ferrous metals including mild steels
non-ferrous metals including copper, brass, bronze and aluminium
basic forming processes suitable for materials
casting
rolling
extruding
cutting
joining
fabricating
polymers
thermo softening
thermosetting
ceramics
common types used
forming and shaping
composites
timber
concrete
Communication
freehand sketching in three-dimensional and third angle orthogonal projection
research methods
collaborative work practices
Engineering Reports and their significance in engineering practice

Students learn to:

identify areas of engineering
outline historical uses and appropriateness of materials in the design and production of engineering projects
demonstrate an understanding of the historical developments of engineering
use mathematical and graphical methods to solve problems in engineering
examine the function of simple machines
classify a variety of materials
identify the properties of materials and explain the reason for their selection
describe the structure and bonding of materials
distinguish between and explain reasons for the use of ferrous and non-ferrous metals as components in engineering
describe the suitability of basic forming processes used on materials
distinguish between thermo softening polymers and thermosetting polymers
identify the types of engineering ceramics
identify forming and shaping methods
outline the properties and uses of composites in engineering
identify third angle orthogonal projection
draw freehand, orthogonal and three dimensional pictorial drawings of objects
conduct research using computer technologies and other resources
appreciate the value of team work
outline the use and basic structure of an Engineering Report

Engineering application module 2: Engineered products

30 hours indicative time

Select one or more products as an introduction to engineering applications. Some products include: kettles, washing machines, toasters, portable power tools, irons, vacuum cleaners, wheelbarrows, sprinklers, garden implements, garden mulchers, lawnmowers and motor vehicles.

Outcomes

A student:

P1.1 identifies the scope of engineering and recognises current innovations

P2.1 describes the types of materials, components and processes and explains their implications for engineering development

P3.1 uses mathematical, scientific and graphical methods to solve problems of engineering practice

P3.2 develops written, oral and presentation skills and applies these to engineering reports

P3.3 applies graphics as a communication tool

P4.1 describes developments in technology and their impact on engineering products

P4.2 describes the influence of technological change on engineering and its effect on people

P4.3 identifies the social, environmental and cultural implications of technological change in engineering

P5.1 demonstrates the ability to work both individually and in teams.

Students learn about:

Students learn to:

Students learn about:

Skills of the professional engineer
engineers as:
problem-solvers
designers
communicators
project managers
Historical and societal influences
historical development of various engineered products
the effects of engineered products on peoples’ lives and living standards
the environmental implications of the engineered product
Engineering mechanics
forces
nature and types of forces
addition of vectors
space and free body diagrams
resultants and equilibrants
principle of transmissibility of forces
three force rule for equilibrium
moments of a force
force/couple systems
equilibrium of concurrent coplanar forces
Engineering materials
modification of materials
work hardening
heat treatment
alloying materials
engineering applications of materials
recyclability of materials
implications for recycling
costs and benefits of recycling materials
Engineering electricity/electronics
basic principles
potential difference
current
simple circuits and components
magnetic induction
electrical safety
related Australian electrical safety standards
fundamentals of AC and DC currents
electric motors and generators
Communication
orthogonal and pictorial drawings
Australian Standard (AS 1100)
dimensioning
materials lists
computer graphics such as computer aided drawing (CAD)
collaborative work practices
developing an Engineering Report

Students learn to:

identify the skills required for a professional engineer
recount the historical development of the engineered products
describe the effects of various engineered products on people’s lives
identify the social and environmental implications of engineered products
apply mathematical and/or graphical methods to solve problems related to forces in engineered products
investigate and interpret the concept of equilibrium in the mechanics of engineered products
conduct simple tests aimed at improving materials’ properties through work hardening and heat treatment
identify common alloy materials
analyse the properties, uses and appropriateness of materials for engineered products
explain the benefits of recycling materials
explain the basic electrical principles occurring in the operation of electrical components and circuits
appreciate the importance of safety when using electricity
explain the working of an induction motor
outline field force in currents
distinguish between AC and DC current transmission
explain the workings of electric motors and/or generators
produce dimensioned orthogonal assembly drawings applying appropriate Australian Standard (AS 1100)
use appropriate application software to produce a range of pictorial drawings
work with others and identify the benefits of working as a team
complete an analysis of materials used in a selected engineering product
incorporate the use of computer software in developing the Engineering Report

Engineering application module 3: Braking systems

30 hours indicative time

Select one or more products related to braking systems as an introduction to engineering applications. Some examples include: the band brake, drum brake, disc brake, anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and regenerative braking systems, as well as the automotive handbrake.

Outcomes

A student:

P1.1 identifies the scope of engineering and recognises current innovations

P2.1 describes the types of materials, components and processes and explains their implications for engineering development

P3.1 uses mathematical, scientific and graphical methods to solve problems of engineering practice

P3.2 develops written, oral and presentation skills and applies these to engineering reports

P3.3 applies graphics as a communication tool

P4.1 describes developments in technology and their impact on engineering products

P4.2 describes the influence of technological change on engineering and its effect on people

P4.3 identifies the social, environmental and cultural implications of technological change in engineering

P5.1 demonstrates the ability to work both individually and in teams

P6.2 applies skills in analysis, synthesis and experimentation related to engineering.

Students learn about:

Students learn to:

Students learn about:

Historical and societal influences
historical developments of braking systems including band, drum, disc, ABS, regenerative brake systems and the automotive hand brake
engineering innovations in braking systems and their effect on people’s lives
environmental implications from the use of materials in braking systems
Engineering mechanics and hydraulics
static friction (with simple calculations)
loads and extension
load/extension diagram
tension and compression
stress and strain
stress/strain diagram
tension and compression
work, power, energy (without calculations), principle of the conservation of energy
fluid mechanics
Pascal’s principle
hydrostatic pressure
applications to braking systems
Engineering materials
materials for braking systems
steels
cast irons
composites
manufacturing/forming processes of composites
testing of materials
tensile and compression test
hardness test
Communication
graphical mechanics; graphical solutions to simple mechanical problems
pictorial, orthogonal and exploded drawings
Australian Standard (AS 1100), including dimensioning
computer graphics, computer aided drawing (CAD)
collaborative work practices
Engineering Report writing

Students learn to:

identify historical developments in braking systems
explain the principles of braking systems
examine the changing applications of materials used in components of braking systems
discuss the social implications of technological change in braking systems
use mathematical methods to solve simple static friction problems
distinguish between extension, stress and strain
investigate and apply the basic principles of fluid mechanics to simple braking systems
investigate the macrostructure and microstructure as well as the properties of appropriate materials used in braking systems
describe the manufacturing processes and application of composites to friction materials
describe and/or conduct relevant mechanical tests on materials
use of graphics to solve engineering problems
produce pictorial and assembled orthogonal drawings using exploded views of braking systems and their components, applying appropriate Australian Standard (AS 1100)
use appropriate application software to produce dimensioned orthogonal drawings
work with others and identify the benefits of working as a team
complete an Engineering Report based on the analysis of one type of brake or a component of a braking system

Engineering focus module 4: Biomedical engineering

30 hours indicative time

This module will provide an introduction to the study of engineering focus modules.

One or more examples of biomedical engineering must be used to develop an understanding of the scope and nature of this profession. Some examples include: artificial joints, surgical equipment, artificial limbs, the bionic ear and artificial hearts.

Outcomes

A student:

P1.1 identifies the scope of engineering and recognises current innovations

P1.2 explains the relationship between properties, structure, uses and applications of materials in engineering

P2.2 describes the nature of engineering in specific fields and its importance to society

P3.1 uses mathematical, scientific and graphical methods to solve problems of engineering practice

P3.2 develops written, oral and presentation skills and applies these to engineering reports

P3.3 applies graphics as a communication tool

P4.1 describes developments in technology and their impact on engineering products

P4.3 identifies the social, environmental and cultural implications of technological change in engineering

P5.1 demonstrates the ability to work both individually and in teams

P5.2 applies management and planning skills related to engineering

P6.1 applies knowledge and skills in research and problem-solving related to engineering.

Students learn about:

Students learn to:

Students learn about:

Scope of the profession
nature and range of the work of biomedical engineers
current projects and innovations
health and safety matters
training for the profession
career prospects
relations with the community
technologies unique to the profession
ethics and engineering
engineers as managers
Historical and societal influences
historical background to biomedical engineering
historical developments of products
the effect of biomedical engineering on people’s lives
Engineering mechanics and hydraulics
orders of levers
mechanical advantage, velocity ratio and efficiency
Engineering materials
forming methods
forging
casting
cutting
joining
structure and properties of appropriate materials
alloy steels such as stainless steel, titanium
polymers
ceramics
Electricity/electronics
Ohm’s Law
series and parallel circuits
power source
microcircuits/integrated circuits
digital technology
Communication
sectioning of orthogonal drawings
Australian Standard (AS 1100)
dimensioning
computer graphics, CAD
graphical design
collaborative work practices
Engineering Report writing

Students learn to:

conduct research on the nature and range of the work of biomedical engineers
identify the health and safety issues relevant to biomedical engineering
appraise the training requirements and career prospects of biomedical engineers
debate social and ethical issues relating to biomedical engineering
discuss and relate the historic development of materials as used in biomedical engineered products
discuss the impact of biomedical engineering on people’s lives
apply mathematical and/or graphical methods to solve problems of biomedical engineering practice
describe forming processes for materials used in biomedical engineering
discuss emerging technologies used in biomedical engineering materials
compare the macrostructure and properties of materials used in biomedical engineering
explain the properties and uses of appropriate biomedical engineering materials
apply Ohm’s Law and explain the basic operation of electronic circuits
discuss the development of electronic components
explain the advantages of microcircuits/integrated circuits and their application
explain elementary digital logic
produce dimensioned, sectioned orthogonal drawings applying appropriate Australian Standard (AS 1100)
justify the use of graphics as a communication tool
use appropriate application software to produce graphical designs.
construct quality graphical solutions
work with others and identify the benefits of working as a team
complete an Engineering Report on the biomedical engineering profession with reference to the following aspects:
nature and range of work done
engineers as managers
technologies unique to the profession
current projects and innovations
health and safety issues
ethics related to the profession and
community
career prospects
training for the profession
use of appropriate computer
software and presentation
technique

9 Content: Engineering Studies HSC course

Engineering application module: Civil structures

30 hours indicative time

Select one or more civil structures in this module. Some examples of civil structures include: bridges, roads, dams, buildings, cranes and lifting devices, parklands and children’s playgrounds and equipment.

Outcomes

A student:

H1.2 differentiates between the properties and structure of materials and justifies the selection of materials in engineering applications

H2.1 determines suitable properties, uses and applications of materials, components and processes in engineering

H3.1 demonstrates proficiency in the use of mathematical, scientific and graphical methods to analyse and solve problems of engineering practice

H3.2 uses appropriate written, oral and presentation skills in the preparation of detailed engineering reports

H3.3 develops and uses specialised techniques in the application of graphics as a communication too

H4.1 investigates the extent of technological change in engineering

H4.2 applies knowledge of history and technological change to engineering-based problems

H5.1 works individually and in teams to solve specific engineering problems and prepare engineering reports

H4.3 applies understanding of social, environmental and cultural implications of technological change in engineering to the analysis of specific engineering problems

H6.1 demonstrates skills in research and problem-solving related to engineering

H6.2 demonstrates skills in analysis, synthesis and experimentation related to engineering.

Students learn about:

Students learn to:

Students learn about:

Historical and societal influences
historical developments of civil structures
engineering innovation in civil structures and their effect on people’s lives
construction and processing materials used in civil structures over time
environmental implications from the use of materials in civil structures
Engineering mechanics
truss analysis
actions (loads)
reactions
pin jointed trusses only
method of joints
method of sections
bending stress induced by point loads only
concept of shear force and bending moment
shear force and bending moment diagrams
concept of neutral axis and outer fibre stress
bending stress calculation (second moment of area given)
uniformly distributed loads
stress and strain
shear, compressive and tensile stress
engineering and true stress
yield stress, proof stress, toughness, Young’s modulus, Hooke’s law, engineering applications
factor of safety
stress/strain diagram
Engineering materials
testing of materials
specialised testing of engineering materials and systems
X-ray
testing of concrete
crack theory
crack formation and growth
failure due to cracking
repair and/or elimination of failure due to cracking
ceramics
structure/property relationships and their application to civil structures
glass
cement
bricks
composites
timber
concrete (reinforced, pre- and post- tensioned )
asphalt paved surface
laminates
geotextiles
corrosion
corrosive environments
dry corrosion, wet corrosion, stress corrosion, galvanic corrosion
recyclability of materials
Communication
Australian Standard (AS 1100)
orthogonal assembly dimensioned drawings
freehand pictorial drawings
graphical mechanics
graphical solutions to engineering problems
computer graphics
Computer Aided Drawing (CAD)
applications for solving problems
collaborative work practices
Engineering Report writing

Students learn to:

outline the history of technological change as applied to civil structures
investigate the construction processes and materials used in civil structures from a historical point of view
critically examine the impact of civil structures upon society and the environment
apply mathematical and/or graphical methods to solve problems related to the design of pin jointed trusses
evaluate the importance of the stress/strain diagram in understanding the properties of materials
calculate and graph the bending stress and shear force of simply supported beams involving vertical point loads only
describe the effect of uniformly distributed loads on a simple beam, without calculations
apply mathematical and/or graphical methods to solve problems related to stress and strain
apply mathematical methods to solve problems related to materials used in civil structures
describe basic and specialised testing conducted on materials used in civil structures
examine the properties, uses and appropriateness of materials used in civil structures
examine how failure due to cracking can be repaired or eliminated
make appropriate choices of materials and processes for use in civil structures
investigate the relationship of structure to properties of materials and their use in civil structures
explain the special properties produced by composite materials
compare simple reinforced, pre-tensioned and post-tensioned structures
evaluate the significance of corrosion problems in civil structures
describe methods used to protect civil structures against corrosion
describe methods used for recycling materials when civil structures are replaced
produce orthogonal assembly dimensioned drawings applying appropriate Australian Standard (AS 1100)
produce freehand pictorial drawings
apply graphical methods to the solutions of relevant problems
describe and/or use software to solve problems
work with others and identify the benefits of working as a team
complete an Engineering Report based on the analysis and synthesis of an aspect of civil structures using appropriate computer software

Note: An Engineering Report must be completed in either the Civil structures or the Personal and public transport module.

Engineering application module: Personal and public transport

30 hours indicative time

Select one or more forms of transport in this module. Some examples include: bicycles, motor cars, boats, motor cycles, buses, trucks, trains and trams.

Outcomes

A student:

H1.2 differentiates between the properties and structure of materials and justifies the selection of materials in engineering applications

H2.1 determines suitable properties, uses and applications of materials, components and processes in engineering

H3.1 demonstrates proficiency in the use of mathematical, scientific and graphical methods to analyse and solve problems of engineering practice

H3.2 uses appropriate written, oral and presentation skills in the preparation of detailed engineering reports

H3.3 develops and uses specialised techniques in the application of graphics as a communication tool

H4.1 investigates the extent of technological change in engineering

H4.2 applies knowledge of history and technological change to engineering-based problems

H4.3 applies understanding of social, environmental and cultural implications of technological change in engineering to the analysis of specific engineering problems

H5.1 works individually and in teams to solve specific engineering problems and prepare engineering reports

H6.1 demonstrates skills in research and problem-solving related to engineering

H6.2 demonstrates skills in analysis, synthesis and experimentation related to engineering.

Students learn about:

Students learn to:

Students learn about:

Historical and societal influence
historical developments in transport systems
effects of engineering innovation in transport on society
construction and processing materials used over time
environmental effects of transport systems
environmental implications from the use of materials in transport
Engineering mechanics
simple machines
static friction
concept of friction and its application in engineering
coefficient of friction
normal force
friction force
angle of static friction
angle of repose
basic calculations for work, energy and power
potential energy
kinetic energy
Engineering materials
testing of materials
hardness
impact
heat treatment of ferrous metals
annealing
normalising
hardening and tempering
changes in macrostructure and microstructure
changes in properties
manufacturing processes for ferrous metals
forging
rolling
casting
extrusion
powder forming
welding
changes in macrostructure and microstructure of ferrous metals
changes in properties of ferrous metals
manufacturing processes for non-ferrous metals
alloying
annealing
solid solution hardening
changes in macrostructure and microstructure of non-ferrous metals
changes in properties of non-ferrous metals
ceramics and glasses
as an insulation material
laminating and heat treatment of glass
structure/property relationship and their application
thermo softening polymers
engineering textiles
manufacturing processes
extrusion
injection moulding
blow moulding
structure/property relationships and application
Engineering electricity/electronics
power generation/distribution
electrical energy and power
simple circuits
electric motors used in transport systems
principles
applications
control technology
electrical safety
Communication
freehand sketching, design and orthogonal drawings
sectional views
Australian Standard (AS 1100)
computer graphics, computer aided drawing for orthographic projection
collaborative work practices
Engineering Report writing

Students learn to:

investigate the history of technological change related to transport and its impact on society
identify design features in the engineering of transport systems
describe the environmental impact of energy requirements for transport systems
analyse the impact of developments in transport systems on the environment
apply mathematical and/or graphical methods to solve engineering problems related to transport including mechanical advantage, velocity ratio and efficiency
analyse problems involving static friction
differentiate between the concepts of energy and power and apply appropriate basic calculations
investigate the application of testing of materials
outline how changes in properties occur as a result of heat treatment processes
identify appropriate heat treatment processes
justify appropriate choices for ferrous materials and processes used in transportation parts and systems
experiment with metals to reinforce the concepts of heat treatment
explain the method and applications of various ferrous metal forming processes
justify the use of non-ferrous metals in transportation parts and systems based on relevant structure/property relationships
justify appropriate choices of ceramics and glasses used in transportation parts and systems
justify appropriate choices of polymers used in transportation parts and systems
explain the properties, uses, testing and appropriateness of materials used in transportation
identify the electrical systems used in the transport industry
describe current transmission and simple circuit diagrams
investigate the principles and application of electric motors used in the transport industry, including motor speed control
analyse the basic principles of control technology as applied to the transport industry
appreciate the safe use of electricity and electrical equipment
produce dimensioned, sectioned orthogonal drawings applying appropriate Australian Standard (AS 1100)
use appropriate software to produce orthogonal drawings
work with others and identify the benefits of working as a team
complete an Engineering Report based on the analysis and synthesis of an aspect of personal and public transport using appropriate computer software

Note: An Engineering Report must be completed in either the Civil structures or the

Personal and public transport module.

Engineering focus module: Aeronautical engineering

30 hours indicative time

One or more examples of aeronautical engineering must be used to develop an understanding of the scope and nature of this profession.

Some examples include: design and construction of recreational aircraft, general aviation aircraft, military aircraft, space craft, agricultural aircraft, helicopters and home-built aircraft.

Outcomes

A student:

H1.1 describes the scope of engineering and critically analyses current innovations

H1.2 differentiates between the properties and structure of materials and justifies the selection of materials in engineering applications

H2.2 analyses and synthesises engineering applications in specific fields and reports on the importance of these to society

H3.1 demonstrates proficiency in the use of mathematical, scientific and graphical methods to analyse and solve problems of engineering practice

H3.2 uses appropriate written, oral and presentation skills in the preparation of detailed engineering reports

H3.3 develops and uses specialised techniques in the application of graphics as a communication tool

H4.1 investigates the extent of technological change in engineering

H4.3 applies understanding of social, environmental and cultural implications of technological change in engineering to the analysis of specific engineering problems

H5.2 selects and uses appropriate management and planning skills related to engineering

H6.1 demonstrates skills in research, and problem-solving related to engineering

Students learn about:

Students learn to:

Students learn about:

Scope of the profession
nature and scope of the aeronautical engineering profession
current projects and innovations
health and safety issues
training for the profession
career prospects
unique technologies in the profession
legal and ethical implications
engineers as managers
relations with the community
Historical and societal influences
historical developments in aeronautical engineering
the effects of aeronautical innovation on people’s lives and living standards
environmental implications of flight
Engineering mechanics and hydraulics
fundamental flight mechanics
relationship between lift, thrust,
weight and drag
lift to drag ratio
effect of angle of attack
Bernoulli’s principle and its application to
venturi effect
lift
bending stress
airframes
propulsion systems including
internal combustion engines
jet including turbofan, ram and scram
turboprop
rockets
fluid mechanics
Pascal’s principle
hydrostatic and dynamic pressure
applications to aircraft components and instruments
Engineering materials
specialised testing of aircraft materials
dye penetrant
X-ray, gamma ray
magnetic particle
ultrasonic
aluminium and aluminium alloys used in aircraft including aluminium silicon, aluminium silicon magnesium, aluminium copper
structure/property relationship and alloy applications
changes in macrostructure and microstructure
changes in properties
heat treatment of applicable alloys
thermosetting polymers
structure/property relationships and their application
manufacturing processes
compression moulding
hand lay-up
vacuum lay-up
modifying materials for aircraft applications
composites
types including reinforced glass fibre, Kevlar, carbon fibre and Fibre Metal Laminate (FML) as used in aircraft construction
structure/property relationships and their application in aircraft
corrosion
common corrosion mechanisms in aircraft structures
pit and crevice corrosion
stress corrosion/cracking
corrosion prevention in aircraft
Communication
freehand and technical drawing
pictorial and scaled orthogonal drawings
Australian Standard (AS 1100)
developments
transition pieces
graphical mechanics
graphical solution to basic aerodynamic problems
computer graphics, computer aided drawing (CAD)
3D applications
collaborative work practices
Engineering Report writing

Students learn to:

define the responsibilities of the aeronautical engineer
describe the nature and range of the work of aeronautical engineers
examine projects and innovations from within the aeronautical profession
analyse the training and career prospects within aeronautical engineering
research the history of flight in Australia and understand the way it has impacted on people’s lives
examine safety issues related to flight and flying
apply mathematical and graphical methods to solve flight-related problems
outline Bernoulli’s principle as applied to instrumentation and lift
investigate the nature and effect of bending stresses, applying appropriate mathematical methods
describe the operational principles and use of the stated propulsion systems used in the aircraft industry
apply mathematical methods to solve hydraulics-related problems
describe the basic operation of an altimeter and pitot tube
describe non-destructive tests used on aircraft materials and components
analyse structure, property relationship, uses and appropriateness of materials and processes used in aeronautical engineering applications
investigate the effects of heat treatment on the structure and properties of aluminium alloys
justify appropriate choices of polymers for their application and use in aircraft
describe the uses and application of composites used in aircraft construction
understand the mechanism of corrosion common to aircraft components and identify corrosion prevention techniques
produce dimensioned orthogonal component and scaled drawings applying appropriate Australian Standard (AS 1100)
construct the development of non-circular transition pieces
construct quality graphical solutions
use appropriate software to produce pictorial drawings
work with others and identify the benefits of working as a team
complete an Engineering Report on the aeronautical engineering profession with reference to the following aspects:
nature and range of the work of aeronautical engineers
engineers as managers
technologies unique to the profession
current projects and innovations
health and safety issues
ethics related to the profession and community career prospects
training for the professions
use of appropriate computer software and presentation technique

Note: An Engineering Report must be completed in either the Aeronautical engineering focus module or the Telecommunications engineering focus module.

Engineering focus module: Telecommunications engineering

30 hours indicative time

One or more examples of telecommunications engineering must be used to develop an understanding of the scope and nature of this profession.

Some examples include: telephone systems (fixed and mobile), radio systems, television systems and satellite communication systems.