Adv Topics in Biomechanics (ENGR90020)
Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5Not available in 2025
About this subject
Overview
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Students will be introduced to selected topics from biomechanics, biomaterials, system biology and biorobotics. Students will also appreciate the use of Dynamic Programming, Markov Models and Optimal Control in the above areas. Students will be encouraged to develop critical and constructive thinking via reviewing the latest scientific publications as a part of an assignment to be selected from the above mentioned areas. Biomechanics will focus on the musculoskeletal system for both normal and pathological states. It will introduce quantitative methods to investigate musculoskeletal injuries and diseases (e.g. osteoporosis and osteoarthritis) and discuss the mechanical properties of bone and tissue, gait analysis and orthopaedic implant design. Biomaterials will address different materials (polymers, metals, ceramics and composites) used in contact with living tissue. A main focus in this part is to examine the application of materials in the physiological environment. Topics will include host reaction, testing and degradation of biomaterials in biological environment. System Biology will focus on the big picture discussing regulatory networks and pathways that lead to the changes in cellular and lower levels. Some aspects of Bioinformatics will also be appreciated. Biorobotics will focus of the use of robotics technology in various medical procedures, such as observation, surgical intervention, and rehabilitation / assistance. Current technological challenges will be discussed in view of the state-of-the-arts in the field today.
Intended learning outcomes
Upon completion of this subject students should be able to:
- Formulate problems in statics and dynamics by choosing suitable system boundaries and identifying relevant forces and coordinate systems
- Analyse the equilibrium of systems of forces in two and three dimensions
- Determine the loads and stresses experienced by components of common engineering structures such as trusses, frames and beams
- Describe and analyse the motion of particles and rigid bodies using three-dimensional vectors
- Apply the principles of impulse-momentum and work-energy to solve problems in the dynamics of simple machines and vibrating structures
Generic skills
On completion of this subject, students should have developed the following generic skills
• Ability to apply knowledge of basic science and engineering fundamentals
• Ability to communicate effectively, not only with engineers but also with the community at large
• In-depth technical competence in at least one engineering discipline
• Ability to undertake problem identification, formulation and solution;
• Ability to function effectively as an individual and in multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams, with the capacity to be leader or manager as well as an effective team member
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Eligibility and requirements
Prerequisites
Admission into a PhD or Masters by Research
Corequisites
None
Non-allowed subjects
None
Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)
The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.
Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Assessment
| Description | Timing | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
Two mid-semester assignments worth 20% each | Mid semester | 40% |
One exam Hurdle requirement: Students are required to pass the final exam in order to pass the subject. | End of semester | 60% |
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Dates & times
Not available in 2025
Time commitment details
Estimated 120 hours
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Further information
- Texts
- Related Handbook entries
This subject contributes to the following:
Type Name Course Ph.D.- Engineering Course Doctor of Philosophy - Engineering Course Master of Philosophy - Engineering - Available through the Community Access Program
About the Community Access Program (CAP)
This subject is available through the Community Access Program (also called Single Subject Studies) which allows you to enrol in single subjects offered by the University of Melbourne, without the commitment required to complete a whole degree.
Please note Single Subject Studies via Community Access Program is not available to student visa holders or applicants
Entry requirements including prerequisites may apply. Please refer to the CAP applications page for further information.
Additional information for this subject
Subject coordinator approval required
- Available to Study Abroad and/or Study Exchange Students
Last updated: 4 March 2025