MEC3458 - Experimental project

Overview

Introduction to data acquisition across a range of data types, analogue-digital sampling and signal conditioning. Data acquisition and processing functions using LabView. Current data measurement technologies and equipment, acquisition methodologies used in fluid dynamics, material properties, thermodynamics, control and dynamics. Data analysis methods including error analysis, validation, spectral analysis identification and interpretation of trends. Introduction to research practices, formation and testing of hypotheses as well as experiment design and project management. Communication skills and techniques, preparation of reports and oral presentations. Occupational health and safety.

Rules

Enrolment Rule

Notes

This unit is not offered in 2025.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you should be able to:

Understanding of skills and techniques required for the acquisition of optimised meaningful experimental data

Knowledge of the important components of experimental design

Overview of current technologies available for experimentation

Knowledge of data acquisition methods

Knowledge of data analysis methods

Appreciation for the importance and application of occupational health and safety procedures

Manage and execute short and medium term projects

Form and evaluate hypotheses

Communicate results using written and oral formats

10.

Acquire and optimise experimental data

11.

Use data analysis techniques to explore and evaluate experimental data, including error analysis

12.

Use LabView to acquire and analyse experimental data Apply occupational health and safety procedures.

Teaching approach

Problem-based learning

Simulation or virtual practice

Active learning

Assessment summary

Continuous assessment: 100%

Assessment

1 - Assignment 1: Risk assessment

2 - Lab 1 report: Free and forced heat convection

3 - Lab 2 report: Performance of Francis Turbine

4 - Lab 3 report: Performance of Pelton Turbine

5 - Lab 4 report: Cantilevered beam vibration

6 - Research proposal

7 - Final report

Supplementary assessment

Supplementary assessment is not available for this unit. Check the supplementary assessments page for details about exemptions.

Workload requirements

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Learning resources

Required resources

Other unit costs

The following item is mandatory for practical aspects of the unit and should be purchased at your own cost as you will be reusing them throughout your course.

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