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CHAPTER 2

Mechanical Engineering as A Profession

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Objectives

Understand the role of mechanical engineering on society and the impact this role has on every day lifeRecognize that mechanical engineers are problem solvers who approach the problem in a logical way.Use a logical approach to solving problems

Sections

2.1 Introduction

2.2 Role of Mechanical Engineer

2.3 Becoming a Mechanical Engineer and the Lifelong Learning Process

2.4 Approaching and Solving an Engineering Problem

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2.1 Introduction

Mechanical Engineers have their roots in millwright as iron smelters, rail road millers in the industrial age.

Today, they require formal training (about 4 years) Some students with two-year college and trained in

Calculus Chemistry Physics Statics and Dynamics

transfer to a four-year university degree program. In the last two years of study, mechanical engineers specialize in

Mechanics and Materials Fluid mechanics and heat transfer Thermodynamics Vibration and Controls Computer aided design/manufacture Capstone Design Project

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2.2 Role of Mechanical Engineers

Mechanical Engineers are professionals devoted to employing principles of motion, forces and energy.

M.E. are interested in the design, analysis and fabrication of machinery.

Since machines are omnipresent, they work in all fields like Transportation (air, rail, road, water) Communication (electric, voice, video) Manufacture (mills, materials, all products) Power generation and distribution Light and Heavy industries

Mechanical engineers at university teach and prepare next generation engineers.

They impart their knowledge and experience through training students, writing books, papers and conducting new research and creating knowledge.

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M.S. and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering

Upon B.S., students go to work for companies, governments or pursue graduate (M. S. & Ph. D.) degree.

Typically M.S. takes 2 years and Ph. D. 3 to 4 years to complete. Some industries prefer students with advanced degrees. They

even pay for such degrees. During graduate studies, students typically get financial

assistance in the form of teaching assistantship research assistantship research fellowship scholarship

During M.S. and more so in Ph. D. student specialize in specific fields within mechanical engineering, say Nanomaterials, Finite Element Methods, Controls.

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Learning is A Life-long Process

Since mechanical engineers work in areas linked to technology, the changes are constantly occurring.

When I went to scale, I used slide rule which is now a part of museum. Computers were never there! Calculators could be owned by only ‘rich and famous’

Beyond formal education, additional education occurs at work, meetings.

Professional engineers (who are involved in design) are mandated to attend continuing education courses to update their knowledge.

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Professional Responsibility of Engineers

(Mechanical) Engineers have a responsibility to society to design, build safe, reliable machinery.

Any device built should not pose any threat to the unsuspecting public.

Professional ethics goes beyond prevailing law to use common judgment to determine suitability of a process and product.

It is not sufficient law of the land but the law of universal survival.

Mechanical engineers should also consider long term effects of their design on

Pollution Environment Global warming