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GaugeHow (Messgerat Labs)

Welcome to the Course Basics of Mechanical Engineering

This course is designed by the GaugeHow Team of the Messgerat Labs

In this course, you will learn 5 concepts of Mechanical Engineering that are

  • IC Engine

  • Metrology

  • Refrigeration

  • Production

  • A career in Mechanical Engineering

Each concept is divided into one Module for easy access, and can directly jump into any of your favourite topics

Read more

Welcome to the Course Basics of Mechanical Engineering

This course is designed by the GaugeHow Team of the Messgerat Labs

In this course, you will learn 5 concepts of Mechanical Engineering that are

  • IC Engine

  • Metrology

  • Refrigeration

  • Production

  • A career in Mechanical Engineering

Each concept is divided into one Module for easy access, and can directly jump into any of your favourite topics

Mechanical Engineer is the broad stream to discover your passion and opens many career opportunities.

People who love machine joins Mechanical Engineering

The scope of mechanical engineering no longer remains limited to just the manufacturing and testing of huge machinery and equipment.

With technology making new advancements, there are several new domains in mechanical engineering which are being taken up by passionate engineers.

In this course, we have covered the basics and will Update them from time to time.

About the sections:

Internal combustion engines (ICE) are the most common form of heat engines, as they are used in vehicles, boats, ships, aeroplanes, and trains.

They are named as such because the fuel is ignited to do work inside the engine

Metrology allows manufacturers to produce products more accurately, more quickly and to a higher standard.

Manufacturing is the making of goods by hand or by a machine that upon completion the business sells to a customer.

These benefits are passed on to consumers as products become cheaper to purchase and are made of a higher quality.

The refrigeration process removes heat from an enclosed space to reduce and maintain the temperature of the contents of that space.

Thank you

Let's explore Mechanical Engineering & Its Career Opportunities

See you in the Course.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Learn mechanical engineering career
  • Internal combustion engine
  • Refrigeration
  • Production engineering
  • Engineering metrology

Syllabus

IC Engine
Engine
Working principle of IC Engine
Types of IC Engine
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides an overview of core mechanical engineering concepts, including IC engines, metrology, refrigeration, and production, which are fundamental to the field
Explores career opportunities in mechanical engineering, offering guidance on job roles, required skills, and strategies for job applications and interviews
Covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of IC engines and refrigeration systems to manufacturing processes and measurement techniques
Includes topics like 'Future Trends of Mechanical Engineering,' suggesting an effort to keep the content relevant and forward-looking for learners
Presents 'Limit & Fit,' which is a core concept in manufacturing and design, and is essential for understanding how parts interact and function together
Features a section on 'Mechanical Measurement,' which is a fundamental aspect of mechanical engineering, covering units, terminologies, and various measurement techniques

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Reviews summary

Foundation in core mechanical engineering basics

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in the core areas of Mechanical Engineering basics. It covers a broad range of topics, from IC engines to production and metrology, making it suitable as a starting point for beginners. Students particularly found the included career section helpful, offering insights into job prospects and tips. However, some learners note that the course lacks depth in specific areas, suggesting it serves primarily as an overview and may require supplementary study for deeper understanding or practical application.
Explores key areas from engines to production.
"Covers a wide array of mechanical engineering fields."
"I got a glimpse into many different ME topics..."
"Wish some areas were covered in more detail, but appreciate the breadth."
Organized into easy-to-access modules.
"I liked that I could jump between modules easily..."
"The course structure is logical and simple to navigate."
"Dividing by topic makes it easy to revisit specific areas."
Includes guidance on ME career opportunities.
"The career module was surprisingly helpful for understanding job prospects."
"Liked the tips on resumes and interviews..."
"Good insight into the future trends in the field."
Provides a foundational overview for novices.
"This course is a great introduction to the fundamental concepts..."
"Perfect for someone just starting out in Mechanical Engineering."
"I found it easy to follow as a complete beginner."
Content is basic; may need further study.
"Found the topics were covered very superficially."
"It's just the basics; you'll need other resources for depth."
"Good overview, but not enough detail for practical application."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Basics of Mechanical Engineering with these activities:
Review Basic Physics Concepts
Strengthen your understanding of fundamental physics principles to better grasp the concepts of IC engines, refrigeration, and manufacturing processes.
Browse courses on Thermodynamics
Show steps
  • Review notes from previous physics courses.
  • Work through practice problems on mechanics and thermodynamics.
  • Identify areas where you need further clarification.
Read 'Manufacturing Engineering and Technology' by Serope Kalpakjian
Gain a deeper understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and systems, which is crucial for comprehending the principles behind production engineering.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters related to metal forming, casting, and machining.
  • Solve the example problems provided in the book.
  • Relate the concepts to the course material on production engineering.
Read 'Fundamentals of Thermodynamics' by Sonntag and Borgnakke
Gain a deeper understanding of thermodynamics, which is crucial for comprehending the principles behind IC engines and refrigeration systems.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters related to energy, entropy, and heat transfer.
  • Solve the example problems provided in the book.
  • Relate the concepts to the course material on IC engines and refrigeration.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Solve Metrology Problems
Practice solving problems related to measurement, tolerances, and fits to improve your understanding of metrology concepts.
Show steps
  • Find practice problems related to linear and angular measurement.
  • Solve problems involving limits, fits, and tolerances.
  • Check your answers and review the solutions.
Design a Small-Scale Refrigeration System
Apply your knowledge of refrigeration principles to design a practical system, reinforcing your understanding of the components and their interactions.
Show steps
  • Research different types of refrigeration systems.
  • Select appropriate components based on your design requirements.
  • Create a schematic diagram of the system.
  • Calculate the required cooling capacity and energy consumption.
  • Document your design process and results.
Follow Online Tutorials on Engine Modeling Software
Learn how to use engine modeling software to simulate and analyze IC engine performance, enhancing your understanding of engine modeling concepts.
Show steps
  • Find online tutorials on engine modeling software such as GT-Suite or Ricardo WAVE.
  • Follow the tutorials to create a simple engine model.
  • Run simulations and analyze the results.
Create a Presentation on the Future of Mechanical Engineering
Research and present on emerging trends in mechanical engineering, expanding on the career section of the course and solidifying your understanding of the field's evolution.
Show steps
  • Research emerging technologies and trends in mechanical engineering.
  • Identify key areas of innovation and development.
  • Create a visually appealing presentation with relevant information.
  • Practice your presentation skills.

Career center

Learners who complete Basics of Mechanical Engineering will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Mechanical Engineer
A Mechanical Engineer researches, designs, develops, manufactures, and tests mechanical devices and systems. This course, titled Basics of Mechanical Engineering, can help you understand the core concepts that are central to this profession. The modules on Internal Combustion Engines and Refrigeration provide essential knowledge for designing and improving thermal and fluid systems, while the Production Engineering module covers manufacturing processes crucial for bringing designs to life. The Engineering Metrology section enhances precision and quality control in your work as a Mechanical Engineer. Finally, the career overview section provides insights into the profession itself.
Manufacturing Engineer
A Manufacturing Engineer improves manufacturing processes and systems to enhance efficiency and quality. This course may be helpful, as the Production Engineering module directly addresses manufacturing processes, metal forming, casting, machining, and welding. Understanding these processes is crucial for optimizing production lines and reducing manufacturing defects. Additionally, the Engineering Metrology module helps ensure precise measurements and quality control. The career overview section may help one understand the job itself.
Quality Control Inspector
A Quality Control Inspector examines products and materials for defects or deviations from specifications. Because this course covers Engineering Metrology, it may be useful for understanding the importance of precise measurements and quality control techniques. The modules on linear, angular, and surface metrology, as well as the use of comparative and GO/NO-GO gauges, help ensure products meet required standards. Knowing about measurement planning is also helpful. The career overview section may help one understand the job itself.
Automotive Engineer
An Automotive Engineer designs and develops vehicles and their components. The Basics of Mechanical Engineering course provides a foundation that may be useful. The Internal Combustion Engines module dives into the working principles, types, and fuels used in engines, which is directly related to this career. The sections on turbocharging and heat transfer in engines are particularly applicable. The overview of mechanical career roles may also be helpful to one hoping to become an Automotive Engineer.
HVAC Engineer
An HVAC Engineer designs and maintains heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. This course may be useful, as it includes a Refrigeration module that covers compressors, condensers, expansion devices, and refrigerants. Understanding the components and principles of vapor compression systems, as well as the properties of moist air and the use of fans, is directly applicable to this job. The sections on refrigeration and air conditioning control systems, design conditions, and applications are also valuable. The career roles overview may also be useful.
Test Engineer
A Test Engineer develops and implements testing procedures for mechanical systems and components. This course may be useful, as its modules on Internal Combustion Engines, Refrigeration, and Production Engineering cover the key principles and components that need testing. The Engineering Metrology section is helpful for understanding measurement techniques and ensuring accurate test results. Understanding mechanical career roles is also helpful.
Design Engineer
A Design Engineer creates technical designs, plans, and models for mechanical components and systems. This course, Basics of Mechanical Engineering, introduces the core concepts needed for this type of work. The modules on Internal Combustion Engines, Refrigeration, and Production Engineering provide a broad understanding of different mechanical systems and manufacturing processes. The Engineering Metrology section helps ensure that designs meet precise specifications. Furthermore, the career roles overview may be helpful.
Product Development Engineer
A Product Development Engineer is involved in the entire lifecycle of a product from concept to launch. This course may be useful as the module on Production Engineering introduces manufacturing processes, materials, and metal forming, which are helpful for understanding how products are made. The Engineering Metrology section ensures products meet quality standards, and the overview of mechanical career roles provides a broader understanding of the field along the path to becoming a Product Development Engineer.
Maintenance Engineer
A Maintenance Engineer maintains and repairs mechanical equipment and systems to ensure they operate efficiently. Because this course covers Internal Combustion Engines, Refrigeration, and Production Engineering, it may be useful for understanding the components and systems that require maintenance. Knowledge of these areas can help you diagnose problems and implement effective solutions. The career section also previews the overall role of Maintenance Engineer.
Industrial Engineer
An Industrial Engineer improves efficiency and productivity in organizations through the optimization of processes and systems. This course may be useful, as the Production Engineering module introduces manufacturing processes, materials, and metal forming, which are helpful for understanding how products are made efficiently. The career information is also helpful for understanding the broader industrial landscape on the path to becoming an Industrial Engineer.
Energy Engineer
An Energy Engineer develops and implements energy-efficient solutions and technologies. This course may be useful as the modules on Internal Combustion Engines and Refrigeration cover key principles and components relevant to energy systems. Understanding heat transfer, thermodynamics, and energy efficiency is helpful. The career section can also help on the path to becoming an Energy Engineer.
Aerospace Engineer
An Aerospace Engineer designs, develops, and tests aircraft and spacecraft. This may be a good course, as the modules on Internal Combustion Engines and Production Engineering introduce some fundamental engineering principles. Understanding engine types, materials, and manufacturing processes can provide a foundation for aerospace applications. The career information is also helpful.
Robotics Engineer
A Robotics Engineer designs, builds, and programs robots and automated systems. This course may be useful, as the Production Engineering module covers manufacturing processes and machining techniques. The Engineering Metrology section can also help ensure precision in robotic components. The career roles overview may also be helpful.
Mechatronics Engineer
A Mechatronics Engineer integrates mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering principles to design and develop automated systems. This course may be useful, as the modules on Internal Combustion Engines and Production Engineering provide a foundation in mechanical systems and manufacturing processes. The career overview may also be useful.
Engineering Technician
An Engineering Technician assists engineers in designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems and components. This course, Basics of Mechanical Engineering, may be useful for gaining practical knowledge of core mechanical engineering concepts. The modules on Internal Combustion Engines, Refrigeration, and Production Engineering provide a broad understanding of different mechanical systems. The Engineering Metrology section helps with measurement techniques.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Basics of Mechanical Engineering.
Provides a comprehensive overview of thermodynamics, which is essential for understanding IC engines and refrigeration cycles. It covers the fundamental principles and laws of thermodynamics, as well as their applications in various engineering systems. This book is commonly used as a textbook in mechanical engineering programs. Reading this book will add depth to the course material.
Provides a comprehensive overview of manufacturing processes, materials, and systems. It covers a wide range of topics, including metal forming, casting, machining, and welding. This book is commonly used as a textbook in manufacturing engineering programs. Reading this book will add depth to the course material.

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