UTS ENGINEERING
48610
Introduction to Mechanical Engineering
Engineering Fundamentals, Thermodynamics & Systems
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) | Year 1
University of Technology Sydney
, Topic 1: What is Mechanical Engineering?
1.1 Role & Scope
Mechanical engineering is the broadest engineering discipline, concerned with the design, analysis,
manufacturing and maintenance of mechanical systems.
Key Sub-disciplines
• Mechanics (statics, dynamics, solid mechanics)
• Thermodynamics & heat transfer
• Fluid mechanics
• Manufacturing & materials
• Control systems & robotics
• Design & CAD
1.2 Engineering Design Process
1. Define the problem (requirements, constraints)
2. Research and gather information
3. Generate multiple concepts/ideas
4. Evaluate and select best concept
5. Prototype and test
6. Iterate and refine
7. Communicate solution (drawings, reports)
⚡ Exam Tip: In exams and assignments, always show your design reasoning — marks are awarded for
process, not just the answer.
Topic 2: Thermodynamics
2.1 The Laws of Thermodynamics
Zeroth Law
If A is in thermal equilibrium with B, and B with C, then A is in thermal equilibrium with C. This defines
temperature.
First Law — Conservation of Energy
ΔU = Q - W
ΔU = change in internal energy, Q = heat added to system, W = work done BY the system.
⚡ Exam Tip: Sign convention: Q positive = heat IN, W positive = work OUT.
Second Law
48610
Introduction to Mechanical Engineering
Engineering Fundamentals, Thermodynamics & Systems
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) | Year 1
University of Technology Sydney
, Topic 1: What is Mechanical Engineering?
1.1 Role & Scope
Mechanical engineering is the broadest engineering discipline, concerned with the design, analysis,
manufacturing and maintenance of mechanical systems.
Key Sub-disciplines
• Mechanics (statics, dynamics, solid mechanics)
• Thermodynamics & heat transfer
• Fluid mechanics
• Manufacturing & materials
• Control systems & robotics
• Design & CAD
1.2 Engineering Design Process
1. Define the problem (requirements, constraints)
2. Research and gather information
3. Generate multiple concepts/ideas
4. Evaluate and select best concept
5. Prototype and test
6. Iterate and refine
7. Communicate solution (drawings, reports)
⚡ Exam Tip: In exams and assignments, always show your design reasoning — marks are awarded for
process, not just the answer.
Topic 2: Thermodynamics
2.1 The Laws of Thermodynamics
Zeroth Law
If A is in thermal equilibrium with B, and B with C, then A is in thermal equilibrium with C. This defines
temperature.
First Law — Conservation of Energy
ΔU = Q - W
ΔU = change in internal energy, Q = heat added to system, W = work done BY the system.
⚡ Exam Tip: Sign convention: Q positive = heat IN, W positive = work OUT.
Second Law
