Ipenz Knowledge Profile - Mechanical Engineering

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SECTION TWO – KNOWLEDGE PROFILE
Element one: Application of knowledge from one or more of the natural sciences
Mechanical Engineering
Majorly, a mechanical engineer is mostly concerned with the manufacture, design as well
as maintenance of mechanical systems across a range of industries. As they perfom the named
functions, they apply various theories and principles such as thermodynamics, pneumatics
hydraulics, among others (Belegundu and Chandrupatla, 2019). On the other hand, natural
science relates to the description, understanding and the prediction of natural phenomena with
regards to the empirical data obtained during the experimentation and observation (Ahmad et al.,
2015). There are a number of natural sciences related to mechanical engineering which has a
significant contribution in the field. Some of these include computer and information sciences,
mathematics, physics, hydrology, calculus-based physics, and chemistry (Budynas and Nisbett,
2020).
Development through formal study
Mechanical engineering is developed formal through enrolling in a bachelor’s degree
program which is accredited. Thereafter, one advances to graduate studies as well as work
experience under the supervision of senior and a well-accomplished engineer. Upon beginning a
new project, the mechanical engineer will basically rely on their hands-on skills, physical
intuition, as well as personal judgement which is gained through the past technical experiences
(Deb, 2012) (Chen et al., 2013). In the process, they make a number of questions such as how
will this work? In case one is not aware of how to develop a particular formulation or solve a
task, an engineer will conduct further research such from the already published articles i.e. From

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cite seer and google scholar, patents, product compositions and c0onference papers. In summary,
the mechanical engineer is a lifelong endeavour which is developed over time (Chiang et al.,
2014).
Development through job learning
In order to develop one's career as a mechanical engineer, one needs to begin gaining
experience at an early stage. Most of the employers out there value experience more than any
other aspect. For instance; star undertaking the internships as early as the first year of study,
undertaking part-time tasks, volunteering, in addition to shadowing professionals (Huang and
Yan, 2013). This will greatly add to your insight into becoming a better mechanical engineer.
Besides, one needs to develop some qualities and skills such as math skills, listening skills, and
problem-solving skills in order to be an apt engineer (Gausemeier et al., 2014).
Element Two: Mathematical knowledge relevant to mechanical engineering
Applied mathematics or basically mathematics is an integral component of every
engineering field. There are a number of applications in the mechanical engineering field which
necessitate for the use of mathematics. The mathematics skills are essential as they will assist the
mechanical engineer in designing, developing as well as maintaining the various mechanical
tools and equipment (Letcher et al., 2015). Often, mechanical engineers combine problem-
solving abilities and analytical problems with mathematics to design new machines. For
instance; an engineer might be in need of designing a new chassis for the auto industry (Hwang
et al., 2013).
The process involved in the design includes analysis of the current parts, use of maths in
the creativity to design the appropriate fits, awareness of the desired performance standards and
goals, as well as the use of creativity. Some of the relevant mathematical areas essential in

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mechanical engineering include trigonometry, college algebra, differential equations, calculus I,
calculus ii, statistics, geometry, and linear algebra (Manzhirov, 2014).
Development through formal study
Mathematics in mechanical engineering is developed through design and development of
tools, equipment and machinery. It majorly entails analysis of the performance standards and
current parts, and application of the creativity to generate the desired outcome. Taking calculus,
as the first instance; all areas of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics apply calculus (Haik et al.,
2018). Additionally, vibrational mechanics apply calculus in the determination of acceleration
and velocity of the vibrating object. Trigonometry: trigonometry is applied widely in the
determination of large distances which otherwise cannot be determined through physical
methods such as muse of measuring devices and instruments (Olusegun et al., 2012).
Differential equations: this is applied basically on areas such as fluid dynamics, heat
transfer and mechanical vibrations. Statists, and probability: statics is applied in the analysis of
tolerance, as well as testing of components prior to their failure.
On-job learning of mathematics in mechanical engineering
There are a number of things which one can undertake in order to develop their
mathematical knowledge in mechanical engineering. Some of these include undertaking
problems involving autocad, computer-aided design, Microsoft office suite experience,
automated model programming, understanding flow charts and documentation, as well as
utilisation of software to design various concepts up to the set standards (Rashad et al., 2014).