Biomechanics and Biotransport

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2010:

This module is designed to enable students to apply the fundamental principles of engineeering to bioengineering applications. It aims to provide the foundation for subjects in biomechanics and biofluids. Topics covered include Newton's Law, tranfer of linear and angular momentum possessed by mass and contributed by forces, rigid body and fluid statics to perform simple analysis on human systems. Students will attempt steady and unsteady state problems, and understand the concept of mechanical engergy, Bernoulli equations and Reynolds Numbers.

In addition to the above fundaments,a students will be introduced to:

• Biomechanics of solids that includes dynamics of rigid bodies applied to the musculoskeletal system, and mechanics of defomable bodies applied to biological tissues,

• Biofluids encompassing kinematics of fluid flow and its application to blood flow in the body.

On completing this subject the student will/should have the ability to:

• Explain the concepts of the conservation of linear and angular momentum;
• Develop solutions for problems involving rigid body statics and fluid statics;
• Relate the conservation of linear momentum to steady and unsteady states systems;
• Determine Reynolds Number for fluid flow and understand the definition for laminar and turbulent flow;
• Apply Bernoulli equation for systems with flowing liquids;
• Solve simple two dimensional rigid bodies musculoskeletal system;
• Apply the fundamental of strength of materials (stress & strain) to biological tissues;
• Appreciate the complex problem of blood flow in the circulatory system.

One mid-semester test of one hour duration (10%).

One group written assignemnt of 5000 words (20%).

Two laboratory reports of 1000 words each (20%).

One written examination of two hours duration at the end of semester (50%).

This subject potentially can be taken as a breadth subject component for the following courses:

• Bachelor of Arts
• Bachelor of Commerce
• Bachelor of Music

You should visit learn more about breadth subjects and read the breadth requirements for your degree, and should discuss your choice with your student adviser, before deciding on your subjects.

On completing this subject, students should have developed their:

• Ability to apply knowledge of science and engineering fundamentals.
• Ability to undertake problem identification, formulation and solution.
• Ability to utilise a systems approach to complex problems and to design and operational performance.
• Proficiency in engineering design.
• Ability to communicate effectively, with the engineering team and with the community at large.
• Capacity for creativity and innovation.
• Ability to function effectively as an indvidual and in multidisciplinary and multicultural teams, as a team leader or manager as well as an effective team member.
• Capacity for lifelong learning and professional development.