Teaching Mechanical Design for Mechatronics Engineering Students Using a Project-based Sequential Learning Approach

摘要

In this work, we described project-based multi-objective sequential learning modules and the teaching strategy of the machine design subject for undergraduate mechatronics engineering students. The suggested approach introduced the design procedures and concepts using a single multi-level design problem as a semester-long project. The students worked in teams to complete design modifications using new and enhanced design concepts and tools during the semester. An Excel spreadsheet for the design analysis was created by each team and was upgraded repetitively during the course to achieve new design specifications and criteria. In addition, the students built a numerical model for the same project using Finite Elements method and gradually updated the model during the semester using evaluation tools and design libraries in SolidWorks. The students compared and discussed results of the numerical simulation and the traditional design equations and formulas through two midterm projects, final project reports, and several classwork assignments. The Machine Design course had been implemented and evaluated at Engineering Department at Colorado State University - Pueblo. The students' participation rate was high during the implementation of this advanced subject in mechanical engineering. They gained skills in critical thinking, teamwork, and engineering design. The main challenge from the students' perspective was their variable skill level in using the software and from the instructor's perspective was keeping the students involved in a long-term project problem as well as introducing new theoretical concepts in a single design problem. This paper describes learning modules and provides information on how the modules are integrated into a cohesive system at the end of the project.