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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION TO MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

SKMJ 1902

ENGINEERING PRINCIPLES

AND PRACTICE

UTM JOHOR BAHRU

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Learning Outcome

At the end of this chapter, students should be able

to describe the characteristics of

the mechanical engineering profession.

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Introduction & the transition to University
Mechanical Engineering Curriculum in UTM
Mechanical Engineering Profession
Research in Mechanical Engineering
What skills do Mechanical Engineers Need?

CONTENTS

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INTRODUCTION

&

THE TRANSITION TO UNIVERSITY

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“Agri Campus”

“City Campus”

“Tropical Campus”

UTM Pagoh�(50 Hectares)

Welcome to

Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

UTM Kuala Lumpur�(35 Hectares)

UTM Johor Bahru�(1,144 Hectares)

Integrated Facilities (MOHE)

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Transition to University

It is very important to understand and appreciate the differences between life in schools/matriculation colleges and the university.

It is essential to adapt quickly to the new environment.

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Life in School

Boarding Schools:

Fixed schedule (e.g. prep hours & lights-off)
Wardens monitor your activities

Non-Boarding Schools:

Tuition classes
Parent/family/guardian monitors your activities

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Life in the University

Being independent:

Self-management of time, material & money
Self-monitoring and self-assessment of academic progress & achievement

Making informed decisions:

Taking control in making decisions & accomplishing goals with some support from Academic advisor and lecturers
Academic advisor’s role is as a facilitator and referral agent

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Teaching & learning methods:

Outcome based education (OBE) approaches:

Active learning
Cooperative learning – working in groups
Case studies
Demonstration/laboratory/ studio
Project/problem-based learning

Life in the University

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Teaching & learning methods:

No ‘spoon-feeding’:

Lecture notes, if any, provided by lecturers are very basic,
Use the library & other resources,
You’re expected to search for additional information and do further exploration on the topics discussed.

Do not rely on memorization alone but instead develop:

A good understanding of basic concepts,
Ability to apply basic concepts in solving problems,
Ability to explain & discuss basic concepts with your peers.

Life in the University

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Develop Good Habits

Good health habits:

Adequate sleep & rest
Balanced diet
Exercise

Get organized:

Develop a regular study schedule
Organize course materials
Utilize the My ePortfolio@UTM
Complete assignments in a timely manner

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MECHANICAL ENGINEERING CURRICULUM STRUCTURE AT UTM

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What is Mechanical Engineering ?

The word 'Engineering' is derived from the Latin Root 'Ingeniere', meaning to design or to devise, which also forms the basis of the word “Ingenious”

The term 'Mechanical Engineering' originated in the 19^th century

During the 19^th century, the steam engines played a very important role with applications not only in transportation but also in the industry

By the 20^th Century, mechanical engineering has become broader, embracing internal combustion engine, drive mechanism, machine tools, air-conditioning plants and refrigeration systems

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What is Mechanical Engineering ?

The field of Mechanical Engineering deals with forces, materials, energy, fluids, motion and design

Mechanical Engineers apply their knowledge of these elements to devise products and solve problems

Scientist normally emphasize the discovery of physical laws rather than apply those phenomena to develop new products whilst engineers apply their knowledge of mathematics, science, and materials to develop new and better technologies

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Mechanical engineer CONTROL:� 👉 FORCE,

👉 MOVEMENT,

👉 VIBRATION,

👉 HEAT,

👉 STRENGTH

Without mechanical design:�Electronics will not survive

Propeller Aerodynamics

Lift generation
Airflow pattern
Blade angle & pitch

Question:

If the angle gear change to

5°, what happen in lifting?

Motor & Torque Transmission

High-speed rotation
Bearing friction
Heat dissipation

Question :

Vibration

Rotor balancing

Frame Structural Design

Lightweight vs stiffness
Carbon fiber vs aluminium
Load path during landing

Question :

If drone drop at 2 meter,

Where is the maximum stress can happened?

Dynamic Stability

Centre of gravity
Gyroscopic effect
Transient response

This can be continue with:�Vehicle dynamics mini version (flying vehicle).

What is Mechanical Engineering ?

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What is Mechanical Engineering ?

For accredited engineering programs in Malaysia, the Board of Engineers Malaysia specifies that the following are core areas for Mechanical engineering (Engineering Accreditation Council, Programme Accreditation Standard 2020):

CORE AREAS FOR MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Materials
Statics & Dynamics
Fluid Mechanics
Thermodynamics & Heat Transfer
Mechanical Design
Instrumentation & Control
Vibrations
Solid Mechanics
Manufacturing/Production
Electrical Power and Machines
Electronics and Micro- processors
Computer Aided Engineering

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BLOOM TAXONOMY

Learning occurs progressively—from knowing to understanding, applying, evaluating, and ultimately creating.

This means:

Learning is more than simply memorizing.
Learning is a process of progressing through different levels of thinking.

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BLOOM TAXONOMY

Bloom believed that:

Knowledge develops through a cognitive hierarchy.
Higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) require a strong foundation.
Teachers do more than deliver information; they guide learners toward higher levels of thinking.

Bloom’s taxonomy is not simply about memorization. It is a framework for cognitive development.

It is not intended to make learning difficult for students. It is designed to help them become truly mature thinkers.

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Is it simply by completing 4 years of courses?

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THE SECRET RECIPE

Mechanical Engineering degree is not just a collection of courses.

Each group of courses plays a specific role in developing you as a Mechanical Engineer.

WHY THE CURRICULUM IS STRUCTURED THIS WAY?

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MECHANICAL ENGINEERING CURRICULUM

Mathematical Foundations:

What mathematical tools do I need to solve engineering problems?

SSCE 1693 Engineering Mathematics I

SSCE 1793 Differential Equations

SSCE 1993 Engineering Mathematics II

SSCE 2193 Engineering Statistics

Philosophy:

Mathematics is the language and tool of engineering. It allows us to translate physical behavior into quantities, equations, and predictions.

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MECHANICAL ENGINEERING CURRICULUM

Engineering Foundation and Thinking:

How do I think and approach engineering problems?

SKMJ 1023 Computational Thinking and Programming

SKMJ 1902 Engineering Principles and Practice

SKMJ 1503 Engineering Modelling and Drawing

SKMJ 1223 Introduction to Mechatronics Systems

SKMJ 1203 Statics

Philosophy:

Builds the basic ways engineers think, model, compute, communicate and solve problems before entering deeper mechanical engineering science.

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MECHANICAL ENGINEERING CURRICULUM

Engineering Communication & Language (Language Academy):

How do I communicate engineering ideas clearly and professionally?

UHLB 1112 English Communication Skills

UHLB 2122 Professional Communication Skills 1

UHLB 3132 Professional Communication Skills 2

UHLX 1122 Foreign Language Elective

Philosophy:

Develops the ability to communicate technical ideas effectively to engineers, organisations and society.

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MECHANICAL ENGINEERING CURRICULUM

Mechanical Engineering Science:

What fundamental principles govern mechanical systems?

SKMJ 1113 Mechanics of Solids I

SKMJ 1213 Dynamics

SKMJ 1413 Thermodynamics

SKMJ 2313 Mechanics of Fluids I

SKMJ 2613 Materials Science

Philosophy:

Establishes the fundamental physical principles governing forces, motion, energy, fluids and materials. This is the scientific foundation of mechanical engineering.

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MECHANICAL ENGINEERING CURRICULUM

Applied Mechanical Engineering Sciences:

How do these principles work in real engineering systems?

SKMJ 2123 Mechanics of Solids II

SKMJ 2223 Machine Dynamics & Vibration

SKMJ 2423 Engineering Thermodynamics & Heat Transfer

SKMJ 2323 Mechanics of Fluids II

SKMJ 2213 Measurement System and Sensors

SKMJ 3713 Manufacturing Processes

SKMJ 3823 Project Management and Finance

SKMJ 3813 Integrated Operation Management

Philosophy:

Moves students from understanding fundamental principles to applying them to more realistic engineering systems and processes.

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MECHANICAL ENGINEERING CURRICULUM

Experimental Engineering & Validation:

Does theory agree with reality?

SKMJ 2912 Engineering Laboratory

SKMJ 4922 Integrated Laboratory

Philosophy:

Students learn that engineering theory must be measured, tested, observed and validated against physical behavior.

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MECHANICAL ENGINEERING CURRICULUM

Engineering Analysis, Design & Control:

How can I analyse, predict, control, and design a system?

SKMJ 2233 Control Engineering

SKMJ 3023 Applied Numerical Methods

SKMJ 3513 Elements of Mechanical Design

Philosophy:

Develops the ability to model, analyse, predict, control and design engineering systems using numerical and engineering methods.

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MECHANICAL ENGINEERING CURRICULUM

Engineering Design Integration (Design Mindset):

What can we design, create, or improve to solve the problem?

SKMJ 3524 Integrated Engineering Design 1

SKMJ 3534 Integrated Engineering Design 2

Philosophy:

Integrates knowledge from earlier courses to create solutions: There is a problem → What can we design, create or improve to solve it?

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MECHANICAL ENGINEERING CURRICULUM

Engineering Research & Investigation (Research Mindset):

Why does it happen, and what factors influence it?

SKMJ 4912 Undergraduate Project I

SKMJ 4924 Undergraduate Project II

Philosophy:

Develops systematic investigation: There is a problem → Why does it occur, how does it occur, and what factors govern it?

From learner → independent thinker.

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MECHANICAL ENGINEERING CURRICULUM

Professional Engineering Practice & Industrial Experience:

How is engineering actually practiced in the real world?

SKMJ 3921 Engineer and Society

SKMJ 4902 Engineering Professional Practice

SKMJ 3915 Industrial Training

Philosophy:

Understand the engineer’s responsibility to society → learn professional engineering practice → experience engineering in the real workplace.

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MECHANICAL ENGINEERING CURRICULUM

Professional Values, Ethics & Society:

What is my responsibility as an engineer to society?

ULRS 1022 Philosophy and Current Issues

ULRS 1182 Appreciation of Ethics and Civilizations

ULRS 1032 Integrity and Anti-Corruption

Philosophy:

Develops engineers who understand ethics, integrity, society, civilization and professional responsibility, not merely technical knowledge.

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MECHANICAL ENGINEERING CURRICULUM

Global, Innovation & Entrepreneurial Competencies:

How can I innovate and create value beyond technical work?

ULRF 2XX2 Global Citizen Elective

ULRS 3032 Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Philosophy:

Develops the ability to operate beyond purely technical work: innovation, entrepreneurship and global awareness.

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MECHANICAL ENGINEERING CURRICULUM

Personal & Interdisciplinary Development (Free Elective):

What else would I like to learn beyond mechanical engineering?

SXXX xxx3 Free Elective

Philosophy:

Gives students freedom to broaden their knowledge beyond the prescribed mechanical engineering curriculum.

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MECHANICAL ENGINEERING CURRICULUM PHILOSOPHY

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MECHANICAL ENGINEERING CURRICULUM PHILOSOPHY

A STRUCTURED INTELLECTUAL JOURNEY THAT TRANSFORMS A SCIENCE STUDENT INTO A RESPONSIBLE SYSTEM DESIGNER CAPABLE OF ANALYZING, INTEGRATING, AND CREATING MECHANICAL SOLUTIONS FOR SOCIETY.

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LEARNING

STRATEGY

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LEARNING STRATEGY 1:

Three Languages in Engineering

Technical Language → For Engineers and Technical Experts�Precise terminology, equations, symbols, drawings, specifications, standards.

Academic/Formal Language → For Reports, Theses and Academic Communication�Structured, objective, evidence-based explanation.

Layman’s Language → For the Public and Non-Technical Audiences�Simple, clear explanations without unnecessary technical jargon.

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LEARNING STRATEGY 2:

Develop Mechanical Engineering Intuition

Build your general knowledge of mechanical components

For every component, ask:

WHAT IS IT? → FUNCTION? → HOW DOES IT WORK? → WHAT PHYSICS GOVERNS IT? → HOW THEY INTERACT WITHIN AN ASSEMBLY → HOW CAN IT FAIL?

The more mechanical systems you understand, the easier it becomes to connect theory, physics, analysis, and design.

Continuously expand your knowledge of mechanical components, their functions, how they work, and how they interact within a system.

Contohnya:

bearings, shafts, gears, V-belts, chains, couplings, springs, seals, fasteners, brakes, clutches, tyres, pumps, compressors, engines, valves, heat exchangers, actuators, sensors, dan sebagainya.

Untuk setiap komponen, biasakan bertanya:

What is it? → What is its function? → How does it work? → What physics governs it? → What loads act on it? → How does it interact with other components? → How can it fail?

Contohnya untuk bearing:

Bearing → supports a rotating shaft → carries radial/axial loads → reduces friction → involves contact mechanics, friction, lubrication and fatigue → interacts with the shaft and housing → may fail through fatigue, wear, overheating or lubrication failure.

Kemudian apabila pelajar belajar Statics, Dynamics, Solid Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Component Design, mereka sudah mempunyai physical object dalam fikiran untuk menghubungkan teori dengan dunia sebenar.

Mengapa strategi ini sangat penting?

Ia membina apa yang saya cadangkan anda panggil “Mechanical Engineering Intuition.”

Pelajar akan mula melihat sebuah mesin bukan sebagai satu objek, tetapi sebagai:

SYSTEM → ASSEMBLIES → COMPONENTS → FUNCTIONS → PHYSICAL PRINCIPLES

Contohnya sebuah kereta:

Car → Powertrain → Transmission → Shaft → Bearing

dan setiap aras membawa kepada persoalan engineering:

What does it do? → How does it work? → What forces/energy/heat/flow are involved? → How do we analyse it? → How do we design it?

Ini sebenarnya sangat cantik disambungkan dengan falsafah sebelum ini:

You cannot fully understand the physics of a mechanical system if you do not understand the components that make up the system and how they work together.

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Focus on and master the following courses. Weaknesses in these subjects will directly affect your performance in the years ahead:

Statics
Engineering Modeling and Drawing
Computational Thinking and Programming
Introduction to Mechatronics
Calculus and Differential Equations
Statistics
Verbal Communication Skills
Written Communication Skills
Laboratory Report Writing
Project Report Writing
Design Project Documentation
Final Year Project Thesis

LEARNING STRATEGY 3:

Master Your Foundations

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1. Observe the phenomenon → 2. Understand the physics → 3. Formulate the mathematics → 4. Solve → 5. Interpret the engineering meaning

PHILOSOPHY:

Engineers do not begin with equations.

They begin by understanding physical reality, identifying the governing physical principles, and only then formulating the mathematics.

LEARNING STRATEGY 4:

Learn to Think Physically

Understand the Physics Before the Mathematics

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Key Foundational Courses

SKMJ 1203 STATICS

“Learn to think physically”

“Statics is one of the key foundational courses in Mechanical Engineering. I strongly advise you to master it, because many subjects that you will study later build upon the physical concepts and problem-solving skills that you develop in Statics.”

“When learning Statics, remember: physics first, mathematics second. Mathematics is the tool; physics tells you what the equations should represent.”

Physics first → Mathematics second

LEARNING STRATEGY 4:

Learn to Think Physically

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Key Foundational Courses

Mechanical engineering problems often involve complex calculations, multiple interacting subsystems, repeated iterations, and parametric studies. Solving such problems manually can quickly become inefficient and impractical.

Computational thinking teaches you how to break a complex engineering problem into smaller manageable parts, identify the inputs, outputs and relationships, develop a logical algorithm, and automate the calculations using a computer.

Engineering Problem → Mathematical Model → Algorithm → Computer → Engineering Insight

LEARNING STRATEGY 5:

Learn to Think Computationally

“In your early courses, many problems can still be solved manually. But as you progress in Mechanical Engineering, the problems become more complicated. You may have many equations, many variables, several interacting subsystems, and calculations that must be repeated hundreds or thousands of times.”

“For example, suppose you want to investigate how changing suspension stiffness affects vehicle vibration. You could calculate one stiffness value manually. But what if I ask you to evaluate 100 different stiffness values? What if damping, vehicle mass and road frequency also change? Manual calculation is no longer an efficient approach.”

“This is why you need computational thinking. The important skill is not merely knowing Python syntax. You must first understand the engineering problem, formulate the mathematical model, organise the solution into a logical algorithm, and then ask the computer to perform the repetitive calculations.”

“The computer calculates. The engineer decides what should be calculated and interprets what the results mean.”

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Key Foundational Courses

SKMJ 1023 Computational Thinking and Programming

“Learn to think computationally”

“Computational Thinking and Programming is one of the key foundational courses in Mechanical Engineering. It develops your ability to break down an engineering problem into logical steps and formulate a systematic solution that can be executed by a computer.”

“When learning programming, do not focus only on programming syntax. Learn how to think computationally: understand the problem, identify the inputs and outputs, develop the algorithm, and then write the code.”

1. Problem first → 2. Logic/algorithm second → 3. Programming third

LEARNING STRATEGY 5:

Learn to Think Computationally

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CONNECTING PHYSICAL AND COMPUTATIONAL THINKING

Statics teaches:

Learn to think physically.

Computational Thinking teaches:

Learn to think computationally.

Mechanical Engineering brings both together:

Understand the Physical System → Formulate the Mathematics → Develop the Algorithm → Compute → Interpret the Engineering Meaning

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Learn to derive the fundamental governing equations in Dynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Thermodynamics, and Solid Mechanics from first principles.

LEARNING STRATEGY 6:

Derive, Don't Just Memorize

WHY?

Derivation helps you to:

Understand the physics behind the equation
Recognize the assumptions and limitations
Understand the physical meaning of each term
Reconstruct equations instead of memorizing them
Develop engineering intuition
Solve unfamiliar engineering problems
Build a strong foundation for advanced analysis and simulation

If you understand the derivation, you do not just know the equation—you understand why the equation works.

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PROMPT DESIGN:

In the age of AI, a good prompt is not merely a question —it reflects how clearly and critically a student thinks

LEARNING STRATEGY 7:

Use AI to Amplify Your Thinking, Not Replace It

Human Mind is a Leader.

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Do not simply copy an assignment or project question into an LLM, copy the generated answer word for word into Microsoft Word, convert it to PDF, and submit it as your own work.

That is not learning.
That is not thinking.
That is not personal growth.

LEARNING STRATEGY 7:

Use AI to Amplify Your Thinking, Not Replace It

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Knowledge is not merely about producing documents.

Knowledge is built through thinking, understanding, questioning, evaluating, and constructing arguments.

If we hand all these processes over to AI, we may produce the document—but we lose the learning.

LEARNING STRATEGY 7:

Use AI to Amplify Your Thinking, Not Replace It

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LEARNING STRATEGY 8: �Read and Review Each Sentence Carefully

If you do not read and review each sentence carefully, understand the content, verify the information, make necessary corrections, and add your own ideas, then you have not truly learned anything.
You may complete the assignment, but you have missed the opportunity to learn, think, and grow.

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Let us discuss?

#1 Why have you come to study Mechanical Engineering?

#2 Name the ‘subsectors’ in Mechanical Engineering you might like to work in? Why?

#3 The Pros & Cons of being a Mechanical Engineer?

#4 Are more people coming to study to become a Mechanical Engineer? Why?

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THANK YOU

univteknologimalaysia

utmofficial

utm.my

In the Name of God for Mankind