QCAA Engineering Machines in society

Mechatronics engineers have used machines such as drones to benefit communities affected by flood events. Drones can be quickly deployed to survey flood-affected areas too dangerous for humans to access, assess damage, identify risks, e.g. submerged roads or fallen powerlines, and identify people who need to be rescued. Drones can also be used to get supplies to people until they can be safely rescued.

Engineers have used their expertise with control technology to develop drones equipped with sensors, GPS and altitude controls that help to navigate and stabilise the drones during flight. They have used their expertise with materials science and mechanics to reduce the weight of drones and make them more aerodynamic, so they are more energy efficient.

A mechanical engineer might explore similar problems involving machines that automatically press and move components from one location to another in the automotive manufacturing industry. They would determine solution success criteria to develop, test and evaluate ideas and a prototype, using knowledge of how metal is plasticly deformed into components, and how movement sensors control the function of automated stamping machines. A solution to the problem would then be manufactured and refined after evaluation of its function using success criteria.

The engineer would have considered the local environmental conditions. Effective use of solar energy requires that most days are cloud free. This would allow the solar-powered pumps to operate efficiently. On overcast, cloudy days when rain is likely, the solar pumps would operate less often, saving water.
The engineer would also have considered the economics of the use of solar water pumps. The initial cost of the pumps is possibly high when compared to other methods, but running costs are low, which allows the community to transport water cheaply and efficiently.
It would be important to have a sustainable water supply, as solar pumps are able to supply large volumes of water. The engineer would have considered the sustainability of the solar pumps and the irrigation system, as breakdowns in the system would need to be repaired. This aspect of implementation of any mechanical system would need to be considered in the maintenance of the system.

Stoves in developing countries, such as India, use biomass such as timber as a fuel. Burning timber has been detrimental to the environment by contributing to poor air quality.
Engineers have used their knowledge of ‘high-tech’ alloys and ceramics to develop low-cost appropriate stove solutions. They have improved the burning efficiency of the stoves by up to 50% by using metal alloys in their construction, reducing size, and using heat-efficient ceramics and effective designs, which reduce smoke output by up to 95%.
Reducing the mass of timber that is burned has long-term and short-term community benefits, including improving air quality, which has associated benefits for people’s respiratory health, and reducing the effects of burning timber on global warming.

1. Electronics
2. Electrical
3. Mechanical
4. Materials