Unit name | Biomechanics |
---|---|
Unit code | MENGM6051 |
Credit points | 10 |
Level of study | M/7 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
Unit director | Dr. J Burn |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
MENG31101 Heat Transfer |
Co-requisites |
none |
School/department | School of Electrical, Electronic and Mechanical Engineering |
Faculty | Faculty of Engineering |
Biomechanics refers to the analysis of living systems using the principles of mechanics. The focus of this unit is on modelling the musculoskeletal system of mammals and humans in particular. Comparisons will be made between the properties of biological actuators, sensors, materials and control systems and their engineering counterparts in analogous systems. Subjects covered include locomotion, respiratory and cardiovascular mechanics, energetic optimisation and distributed control. The applications of biomechanics in sports, medicine, biological science, robotics and bioinspired engineering will be discussed. To introduce students to the composition and organisation of living systems, key terminology and concepts used in the life sciences. To indicate where, when and how mechanics can be used to understand living systems (biomechanics), show how living systems can provide inspiration for engineered systems (biomimetics), and how engineered systems can be used to analyse or augment living systems (biomedical engineering). To develop an analytical and quantitative understanding of biodynamics, biological materials, biological sensing, actuation and control and to compare and contrast with analogous systems in engineering To engender an appreciation of the complexity, the exceptional level of co-optimisation evident in living systems and the processes that have driven their development.
Students will:
Lectures, laboratory session (computing), seminars, group tutorials, directed self-education
2,000 word essay (30 %) 2-hour written exam (70 %)
Nigg BM, Herzog W (2007) Biomechanics of the musculoskeletal system (3rd Ed.) John Wiley and Sons ISBN 9780470017678 Winter DA (2009) Biomechanics and control of human movement. John Wiley and Sons. 0470398183, 9780470398180 Alexander RMcN (2003) Principles of animal locomotion. Princeton University Press ISBN 0691086788, 9780691086781 Schmidt-Nielsen K (1984) Scaling why animal size is so important. Cambridge University Press ISBN 0521319870, 9780521319874 McMahon TA (1984) Muscles reflexes and locomotion. Princeton University Press ISBN 069102376X, 9780691023762