Design and CAD - Advanced (FSI-4KD)

The aim of the course is the synthesis and practical application of partial knowledge acquired in previous design courses to the analysis of the real machine unit (e.g. hydraulic jack, piston compressor etc.) Subsequently, the student is faced with a problem where the analysed machine unit needs to be re-designed for new input conditions, e.g. higher power output. During the solution, the selected machine component, e.g. shaft, is designed and checked using analytical calculation and FEA module of Autodesk Inventor and the results are then compared to understand the suitability of using both approaches in the design process. Introduction of advanced CAD features assumes that the student is familiar with 3D modeller and is able to create complex assemblies and technical drawings. Emphasis is also placed on the ability to defend the proposed solution through consultation with the tutor and presentation of the results of the work in a technical report. Graduates will be able to design functional machine assembly consisting of multiple basic standardized and non-standardized machine components, assess the technological feasibility of the design and defend the proposed solution.

Competences acquired:

Ability to analyse function of the complex machine unit and its key mechanical elements.

Ability to think independently and creatively within a given design task with the possibility of applying an original solution to the problem.

Ability to individually discuss the proposed solution and to present and defend it.

Ability to design a machine assembly using a methodical approach that includes analysis of the task, collection of information, analysis of design variants, selection of the optimal solution and preparation of basic engineering analyses, creation of technical documentation, 3D model and preparation of technical report.

Ability to make a basic assessment of the technological feasibility of the design solution.

Advanced ability to use CAD programs with 3D modeler and calculation tools to design dimensions of machine components.

• Fundamentals of design methodology, algorithm for solving an engineering design task.


• Disassembly and assembly of selected machine unit, identification of key design elements and inspection of main dimensions. Analysis of function of the key mechanical elements.


• Introduction to the Design accelerator tool in Autodesk Inventor. Introduction to the Stress analysis tool in Autodesk Inventor. Dimensioning of parts and safety factor calculations.


• Creation of design drawings, draft design drawings and production design drawings. Hybrid design drawings. Basic economic study.


• Principles of presentation of work results, creation of accompanying technical documentation of the solution.


• Regular consultations with lecturer and checking of progress.