Part A: Course Overview
Course Title: Biomechanics
Credit Points: 12.00
Terms
Course Code |
Campus |
Career |
School |
Learning Mode |
Teaching Period(s) |
MIET2376 |
Bundoora Campus |
Undergraduate |
115H Aerospace, Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 1 2016 |
MIET2376 |
Bundoora Campus |
Undergraduate |
172H School of Engineering |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 1 2017, Sem 1 2018, Sem 1 2019, Sem 1 2020, Sem 1 2021, Sem 1 2022, Sem 1 2023, Sem 1 2024 |
MIET2377 |
City Campus |
Undergraduate |
115H Aerospace, Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 1 2015 |
MIET2377 |
City Campus |
Undergraduate |
172H School of Engineering |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 1 2025 |
Course Coordinator: Dr Toh Yen Pang
Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 9925 6128
Course Coordinator Email: tohyen.pang@rmit.edu.au
Course Coordinator Location: B251.03.22
Course Coordinator Availability: Byappointment via email
Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities
Assumed Knowledge
Mathematics first year level (MATH2160 or similar)
Basic principles of engineering dynamics including Newton’s law of motion, inertia moments, moments of area, centre of mass.
Basic principles of engineering statics such as force, moment of force, balance of forces and balance of moments.
Course Description
This course explores the function, structure, and mechanics of tissues within the musculoskeletal system, such as bones, tendons, and cartilage. As a biomechanical engineer, you will delve into the study of how internal and external forces act on the human body and the resulting movements produced by these forces. You will be introduced to the basic principles of mechanics, including kinematics and dynamics, that govern human movement, and you will learn about the mechanical properties of musculoskeletal tissues.
The course also provides hands-on experience with biomechanical techniques for quantifying human performance, including gait analysis and force measurements, which are essential in clinical, sports, and rehabilitation contexts. You will use industry-relevant tools and software to model, analyse, and interpret biomechanical data, preparing you to solve real-world problems in sectors such as sports science, automotive safety, and rehabilitation.
By the end of this course, you will have developed advanced skills in applying biomechanical engineering concepts to human health challenges, enabling you to critically design, analyse, and optimise biomechanical solutions that are inclusive, innovative, and ready for industry use.
If you are enrolled in this course as a component of your Bachelor Honours Program, your overall mark will contribute to the calculation of the weighted average mark (WAM).
See the WAM information web page for more information.
Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development
This course contributes to the following Program Learning Outcomes:
PLO 1. Demonstrate a coherent and advanced understanding of scientific theories, principles and concepts and engineering fundamentals within the engineering discipline
PLO 2. Demonstrate a coherent and advanced body of knowledge within the engineering discipline
PLO 4. Apply knowledge of established engineering methods to the solution of complex problems in the engineering discipline
PLO 5. Utilise mathematics, software, tools and techniques, referencing appropriate engineering standards and codes of practice, in the design of complex engineering systems
PLO 6. Use a systems engineering approach to synthesize and apply procedures for design, prototyping and testing to manage complex engineering projects.
PLO 7. Apply research principles and methods, taking into account risk and environmental and global context, to plan and execute complex projects.
On completion of this course you will be able to:
CLO1 Analyse and interpret complex forces and moments acting on the human body, using engineering and mathematical approaches.
CLO2 Apply Newtonian mechanics and advanced mathematical modelling to evaluate human motion and joint kinematics.
CLO3 Apply research principles to biomechanical projects, focusing on experimental design and the development of inclusive engineering solutions.
CLO4 Apply biomechanical engineering concepts to design solutions for clinical, sports, and assistive technology applications, focusing on inclusivity and accessibility.
CLO5 Communicate biomechanical engineering solutions and principles effectively to audiences of technical and professional peers
CLO6 Critically reflect on personal contributions to team processes and conduct to enhance project outcomes and group cohesion.
Overview of Learning Activities
In pre-recorded lectures you will learn the fundamental concepts underpinning the understanding of biomechanics of human body, application in clinical practices, biomedical applications and research;
In tutorials you will be applying in practice the acquired engineering knowledge to biomechanical problems
Laboratory practicals and demonstrations conducted in smaller groups to acquire knowledge of the use of engineering devices and information technology in biomechanics;
In seminars and individual feedback sessions where the assignments will be discussed and formative feedback provided.
You are expected to conduct individual self-study, which includes the use of online resources and preparation for lectures and assignments.
Overview of Learning Resources
You will typically need to use professional level resources such as
Prescribed textbooks,
Lecture notes are available on the online learning system (Canvas),
Specialist books and journals that are accessible in the RMIT library and other major libraries (specific recommended references given with lectures and assignments materials)
http://rmit.libguides.com/electricalcomputereng/biomedical
Internet sources may be helpful, but will not be sufficient by themselves.
Overview of Assessment
Assessment tasks
Assessment Task 1: Quiz, 15% CLO1 and CLO2
Assessment Task 2: Proposal, 15% CLO1, CLO2, CLO3, CLO4 and CLO5
Assessment Task 3: Report, 40% CLO1, CLO2, CLO3, CLO4 CLO5 and CLO6
Assessment Task 4: Final Assessment, 30% CLO1, CLO2 and CLO3
If you have a long-term medical condition and/or disability it may be possible to negotiate to vary aspects of the learning or assessment methods. You can contact the program coordinator or Equitable Learning Services if you would like to find out more.