Dynamics and Vibrations unit (ENG217)

Hobart

Introduction

This unit builds upon the particle kinematics and kinetics concepts introduced in Introduction to Mechanical Engineering, extending them to rigid body dynamics, vibrations, and system modelling. Students will explore Newtonian mechanics, energy and impulse methods, and experimental validation to analyse real-world mechanical systems. Through laboratory experiments, theoretical problem-solving, and mathematical modelling, students will develop proficiency in analysing transmission systems, impact mechanisms, and oscillatory motion. 

Consideration is made on the efficiency and sustainability of dynamic systems, where students will evaluate energy losses and propose strategies to improve energy efficiency. The climate-safe engineering approach introduced in Introduction to Mechanical Engineering is reinforced here, emphasising how mechanical engineers can reduce the carbon footprint of moving systems. 

This unit provides a foundation for advanced mechanics, preparing students for Mechanical Vibrations and Advanced Dynamics in later years, where concepts will extend to three-dimensional motion, complex oscillatory systems, and vibration control. Additionally, this unit develops essential report writing and analysis skills, which will be critical in design-focused units in Years 3 and 4. 

Summary

Unit name	Dynamics and Vibrations
Unit code	ENG217
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Engineering
Discipline	Engineering
Coordinator	Doctor Jason Ali-Lavroff
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Intermediate

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Hobart	Semester 1

Note

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Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 1	22/2/2026	16/3/2026	19/4/2026	13/6/2026

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Solve mechanical engineering problems in two-dimensional mechanical systems involving rigid body kinematics, kinetics and vibration using principles of Newtonian mechanics.
• Interpret experimental data from dynamic systems and compare it to theoretical models to evaluate system performance and accuracy.
• Evaluate mechanical engineering systems and propose strategies for improved energy efficiency for reducing carbon footprint and reducing climate impact.

Fee Information

Field of Education	Commencing Student Contribution 1,3	Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3	Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3	Domestic Full Fee 4
030701	$1,192.00	$1,192.00	not applicable	$3,401.00

• Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
• HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility³
• FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility⁴

¹ Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
² Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
³ Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
⁴ Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Prerequisites

ENG107 Mechanical Engineering Foundations AND KMA154

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	3 x 1 hour Seminar per week 1 x 1 hour Tutorial per week 3 x 2 hour Labs per semester
Assessment	Tests (x2) (20%)|Examination (40%)|Laboratory / Practical Report (40%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

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