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Computer Aided Mechanical Engineering allows engineers to design and test new products or
systems without having to build prototypes. Essentially a form of virtual engineering, the engineer
can design and analyse a product or system using the computer to accurately simulate real
situations and stresses that may be placed upon it. This allows the engineer to identify and rectify
any problems that the product may develop, saving the huge development costs of actually
manufacturing and testing the product or system, only to discover a fault. This degree provides an
excellent broad-based Mechanical Engineering education combined with the application of
Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM). Utilising industry
standard software such as 'ACAD', 'Pro Engineer' and
'Ansys' you will gain an understanding of the fundamental principles of engineering -
design, control, materials and manufacturing methods. With this understanding and through the
application of the computer techniques, you will learn to provide solutions to complex engineering
problems as well as for engineering systems and processes.This programme is particularly
suitable for numerate and communicative individuals interested in the design and manufacture of
components and systems. Various industry prizes are awarded annually for academic
achievement. Project work is team activity based and related to real problems, giving you insight
into the workings of industry. You will benefit from studying in a state-of-the-art learning
environment, using extensive IT and specialist engineering laboratories. In addition, staff operate
an 'open door' policy within the School.
Mechanics, energy and heat, mathematics, engineering sciences, design and manufacturing
form the foundation of mechanical engineering. Mechanics includes fluids, ranging from still
water to gases flowing hypersonically around a space vehicle; it involves the motion of
anything from a particle to a machine or complex structure. Analysis, design and synthesis are
the key functions of mechanical engineers. The question is often how devices and processes
actually work. The first step is to visualize what is happening and clearly state the problem. A
mechanical engineer will then use computer-based modeling, simulation, and visualization
techniques to test different solutions. Design is one of the most satisfying jobs for a
mechanical engineer. It is very gratifying to realize that an engineer can prevent more injuries
with a single design than a doctor can repair in a lifetime. “Synthesis” is when you pull all the
factors together in a design that can be successfully manufactured. Design problems are
challenging because most are open-ended, without a single or best answer. There is no best
mousetrap — just better ones.
The two-semester lab sequence in the third year familiarizes students with the state-of-the-art
equipment used in modern industry. Working both individually and in teams, students also
develop communications skills and learn about the complex cultural, legal, ethical and
economic factors which influence the engineering profession. Those who wish to may select
courses that satisfy the requirements of a minor area of study (e.g., aerospace, bio-medical,
environmental management, engineering business).
For more detailed information, please visit the
Hi, I was wondering what is mechanical engineering and what they do? I am
considering becoming a mechanical engineer after I become a computer
programmer. Also does computer programming help in mechanical engineering?
Does taking the International Baccalaureate program help in the engineering
field? Also I am entering highschool and am going to be taking the IB program.
posted by Tierra, MD on March 30, 2012
Answer 1 by Dr. Karen Thole
Dear Tierra from Md: It is very exciting to hear of your interest in mechanical engineering. I
will attempt to address a few of your questions: It is difficult to say what mechanical engineers
do not do in terms of jobs. Our Penn State mechanical engineers do so many things: they
work on designing new hospital buildings, new airplanes, new wind turbines, new surgical
instruments, energy efficient buildings, comfortable chairs, and so much more. We have some
mechanical engineers who are now designing a kindle for the blind! Mechanical engineers not
only design many exciting products, they also venture into managing large projects and
companies; become patent attorneys; research exciting breakthroughs such as those needed
in energy storage; and even become medical doctors! And, yes, mechanical engineers do a
significant amount of computer programming, which they use as a tool to predict things like
how fast our stomach dissolves medication, how to design better airplane wings, and how to
make cars that require less fuel. MEs do lots of computer programing, but with an intention of
making predictions for better products. Finally, I?????????m not exactly sure what you mean
by an IB degree. As an aside, we do not require this, but do have a strong emphasis in our
program on making sure the MEs that we educate have a ?????????global view of
engineering?????????. For example, our Penn State ME students are now working with
students in China, Singapore, and Korea to come up with better designs requested by many
companies. This is an exciting program and our students are getting a much better view of the
world through working in multi-national teams. I hope this is helpful and I wish you the very
best of success. Hopefully, I will see you at Penn State one day enrolled as an ME student!
Professor Thole
Answer 2 by Miss Marita Cheng
Hi Tierra, A mechanical engineer uses physics and material science to solve real-world
problems, such as working on car engines, rockets and planes; manufacturing plants, and
medical devices. Doing computer programming before doing engineering will definitely help,
especially in the field of robotics, and anything that requires a system to be programmed.
Having a degree in both computer programming and mechanical engineering will definitely
give you an edge in the field. The IB is a great program to do if you want to study
engineering, as the IB encourages students to think outside of the box, which is something
engineers have to do everyday. Engineering is a great field to study, as there are so many
opportunities for you to travel around the world, but more importantly, to improve the lives of
millions of people. Good luck with your studies! Regards, Marita