Module manager: Dr R J Holt
Email: R.J.Holt@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module introduces students to the principles of mechanical systems to give them the skills required to build working prototypes. The module concentrates on the value of working prototypes and mechanical systems in product design, and the selection of appropriate standard components to meet required performance criteria.
The aim of this module is to introduce students to the principles of mechanical systems in order that they can build working prototypes of mechanical systems that they have designed. The module concentrates on underlying principles for the design and description of mechanical systems, the selection of appropriate standard components, the definition of necessary interfaces between parts, and the construction of low fidelity prototypes that demonstrate the mechanical functionality of designs.
Subject specific learning outcomes:
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
1. define and sketch out a range of simple mechanisms and describe their function;
2. use component catalogues and data sheets to select standard electromechanical parts to satisfy defined performance criteria;
3. redesign a given mechanism using standard parts to meet new performance criteria; and
4. define and construct a working prototype using standard electromechanical parts.
These module learning outcomes contribute to the following AHEP4 learning outcomes:
• Apply knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to broadly-defined problems. Some of the knowledge will be informed by current developments in the subject of study. [B1]
• Analyse broadly-defined problems reaching substantiated conclusions using first principles of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles. [B2]
• Apply an integrated or systems approach to the solution of broadly-defined problems. [B6]
Skills learning outcomes:
On successful completion of the module students will be able to demonstrate the following skills:
a. Communication: to be clear, concise and focused in communicating design work;
c. Creativity: to generate ideas, demonstrate originality and imaginative thinking, including the concept of ‘thinking outside the box’.
c. Information, data and media literacies: to find, evaluate, organise and share information across a variety of formats and media, ensuring the reliability and integrity both of the sources that you use and of the ideas that they help you to generate.
This module will provide knowledge of mechanical systems and the selection of standard parts. Students will learn how to perform design calculations to determine performance requirements, and to use data sheets and component catalogues to select parts that meet these requirements.
Lectures will cover the following topics:
- The different types of motion and mechanical advantage provided by mechanisms;
- Data sheets, component catalogues, and how to present design calculations and system requirements;
- Specific calculations and use of data sheets for given mechanisms and their associated standard parts, providing linear, rotary, intermittent, reciprocating, oscillation, and irregular movement;
- Specific calculations and use of data sheets for electrical components commonly interfaced with mechanical system (such as motors).
Methods of assessment
The assessment details for this module will be provided at the start of the academic year
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 22 | 1 | 22 |
| Private study hours | 178 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 22 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Working through provided example sheets (22 hours)
Carrying out Coursework (80 hours)
Revision and exam preparation (73 hours)
An online discussion board will be monitored during specified times each week.
Minerva materials are being developed by the careers centre and some of these will be deployed for this module.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team