FACULTY OF ENGINEERING, BUILT ENVIRONMENT

AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

MECHANICAL AND MECHATRONICS
DEPARTMENT:
ENGINEERING

PROGRAMME: Diploma in Engineering Technology

(Mechanical Engineering)

MODULE NAME: MECHANICAL ENGINEERING DESIGN I

MODULE CODE: MED21A

NQF LEVEL: 6
CREDITS: 14

COMPILED BY: MKE RAMOSOEU

DATE REVISED: 2025

CONTENTS

PROJECT GUIDE
 CONTENTS

1. Module overview ........................................................................................... 3

1.1 Purpose Statement 3

1.2 Project Assessment Procedure 3
1.3 Graduate Attributes at the Assessment Stage are to be assessed in this module. 4

2. S1 2025 DESIGN PROJECT TOPIC............................................................... 5

2.1 Subproblems 6
2.2 Table 1 Design Considerations When Evaluating Subproblems 7

3. PROJECT REPORT INFORMATION ............................................................. 8

3.1 Instructions 8
3.2 Report Submittal and Identification Sheet 9
3.3 Report Rubric 10
3.4 Report Graduate Attributes (GAs) Rubric 12
3.5 Report Layout 14

4. PROJECT PRESENTATION INFORMATION............................................... 17

4.1 Instructions 17
4.2 Presentation Submittal and Identification Sheet 18
4.3 Presentation Rubric 19
4.4 Presentation Graduate Attributes (GAs) Rubric 19
4.5 Presentation Layout 20

5. PROJECT PEER REVIEW INFORMATION.................................................. 21

5.1 General Instructions 21

5.2 Peer Review Rubric 21
5.3 Peer Review Graduate Attributes (GAs) Rubric 22

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1. MODULE OVERVIEW

1.1 Purpose Statement

Project work is essential to Mechanical Engineering Design I, aims at providing learners

with a basic understanding of the design of machine components to enable the practical
application of conceptual procedures to attain skills required for a Mechanical Engineering
Design Technician.

The students hand in a report, presentation and peer reviews upon completion of the
project. Both the project report & presentation must be based on the layout provided.

1.2 Project Assessment Procedure

The T3-Mark will be accumulated as follows:

Type of assessment Weight (%)

Assessment criteria Calculation procedure
1st draft report 10
Final report 50
Project presentation with audio 20
Student participation in teamwork on the
ethuto discussion board and exchange of 15
file during the project life
Student participation in peer review 5
Final Mark (FM) T3-MARK = (10% X 1st draft report) + (50% X
final report) + (20% X presentation) +
(5% X student peer review participation) +
(15% X student participation on ethuto
discussion and shared documents)

T3 mark contributes 35% of the course mark. The student must obtain a minimum of 50%
for the Project mark (T3) for admission to the main assessment.

The submission dates are provided in the weekly study schedule and ethuto calendar.

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1.3 Graduate Attributes at the Assessment Stage are to be assessed in this
module.

Mechanical Engineering Design I – Graduate Attribute Rubric

Graduate Attribute Requirement

1)Problem Solving: Competent in applying engineering principles in

Apply engineering principles to solving well-defined engineering problems
systematically diagnose and solve (assignments/design projects).
well-defined engineering problems.
2) Application of scientific and Competent in applying knowledge of
engineering knowledge: mathematics, natural science and engineering
Apply knowledge of mathematics, sciences to engineering procedures, processes,
natural science and engineering systems and methodologies to solve well-defined
sciences to applied engineering engineering problems (assignments/design
procedures, processes, systems and projects).
methodologies to solve well-defined
engineering problems.
3) Engineering Design: Competent in the application of the design
Perform procedural design of process to complete well-defined engineering
components, systems, works, products problems and the investigation of the applicability
or processes to meet requirements, of specified codes/standards to the design of a
normally within applicable standards, specific product (design projects).
codes of practice and legislation.

5) Engineering methods, skills, Competent in applying appropriate techniques,

tools, including Information resources, and modern engineering tools
technology: including information technology for the solution of
Use appropriate techniques, well-defined engineering problems, with an
resources, and modern engineering awareness of the limitations, restrictions,
tools including information technology premises, assumptions and constraints
for the solution of well-defined (assignments/ design projects/practical reports)
engineering problems, with an
awareness of the limitations,
restrictions, premises, assumptions
and constraints.
6) Professional and Technical Competent in applying effective communication,
Communication: both orally and in writing, within an engineering
Communicate effectively, both orally context. Competent in compiling
and in writing within an engineering practical/assignment reports (assignments/design
context. projects/practical reports).

8) Individual, Team and Competent in applying project management

Multidisciplinary working : principles in completing projects in teams within
Demonstrate knowledge and the required timeframes (practical’s/design
understanding of engineering projects)
management principles and apply
these to one’s own work, as a member
and leader in a technical team and to
manage projects.
10) Engineering Professionalism: Competent in applying professional ethics,
Understand and commit to professional responsibilities and norms of engineering
ethics, responsibilities and norms of technical practice in the completion of engineering
engineering technical practice. projects (design projects).

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2. S1 2025 DESIGN PROJECT TOPIC

DESINGTOPIC

Design of a Plain Bearing Hinge for Industrial and Heavy-Duty Applications

The design of a plain bearing hinge is a critical engineering task that requires consideration
of safety, aesthetics, functionality, economy and corrosion while ensuring reliable
performance in industrial, automotive, marine, construction, and aerospace
applications. This project involves developing a boundary-lubricated plain bearing hinge
using a structured design approach based on the step-by-step guideline from Figure 2.10
in the prescribed textbook to determine the critical dimensions and material of the plain
bearing hinge.

Corrosion is a critical factor in the design of plain bearing hinges, especially for applications
exposed to moisture, chemicals, saltwater, and harsh environmental conditions. The
degradation of materials due to corrosion can compromise the safety, durability, and
functionality of the hinge, leading to premature failure, increased maintenance costs, and
potential safety hazards.

DESIGN NEED

The goal is to create a robust, cost-effective, and durable hinge with optimised mechanical
and tribological properties (consider wear due to corrosion) for
1. heavy-duty industrial doors, or
2. bridge expansion joints, or
3. armoured vehicle doors, or
4. construction equipment.

The hinge will be designed to operate under low-speed, high-load conditions, making it
suitable for applications as stated above.

Each group should choose one application as stated above for which they will design the
heavy-duty Plain Bearing Hinge. Depending on the application chosen and the literature
review, each group will decide on the low-speed and high-load values for starting refer to
prescribed textbook pages 29 to 39 and examples 2.1 and 2.2.

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The design considerations: are safety, aesthetics, functionality, economy (costs) and
corrosion.

2.1 Subproblems

The following aspects must be covered in the design;

Subproblem A. Design of plain bearing hinge

(A minimum of three concepts are required)

Subproblem B. Application based on the application of group choice.

(A minimum of three concepts are required)

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The following design aspects indicated in Table 1 must be covered; use standard components where possible.

2.2 Table 1 Design Considerations When Evaluating Subproblems

Evaluation Criteria Total Idea 1 Idea 2 Idea 3 Idea 4 Idea 5

Points State the reason State the State the State the State the
for each reason for each reason for each reason for each reason for each
distribution of distribution of distribution of distribution of distribution of
points points points points points
1. SAFETY
(the condition of being protected from or unlikely to cause
danger, risk, or injury and to ensure safe operation under
various loading conditions)
2. AESTHETICS
(Style, Color, Fit and finish, and to optimise aesthetic
(attractiveness) appeal while maintaining structural integrity.
3. FUNCTIONALITY
(Effectiveness on usage, and maximise functionality and
durability with minimal maintenance)
4. ECONOMY
(To achieve cost-effectiveness through material selection and
manufacturing efficiency)

5. CORROSION
Material selection, protective coatings, and environmental
durability

Overall Points
Comments:

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3. PROJECT REPORT INFORMATION

3.1 Instructions

• The report layout is provided below.

• No handwritten report (Use MS WORD).
• No handwritten equations OR calculations.
• Freehand sketches with notes MUST be used for chapter 2.
• 45 - 60 pages including appendices, 1.5 line spacing, Arial Font, Font size 12, justify
• Students will be given three attempts to submit the report, and only the last attempt
will be marked.
• Only the group leader must upload the report in pdf format.
• One report per group. Each group submits its group work.
• For the 1st Draft report submission, the lecturer will mark the report and give
feedback via eThuto. The submission date is to be announced on eThuto.
• Students are expected to correct and improve their reports based on the
feedback/comments from the lecturer and the writing centre assistant.
• For the Final report submission, the lecturer will mark the report. The submission
date is to be announced on eThuto.
• Students should remember that the design report is subjected to TURNITIN TOOL on
eThuto as submitted, and a maximum of 20% for the similarity report and 20% AI
written report results are acceptable.
• Plagiarism is considered grave misconduct, resulting in a student being expelled from
CUT; for more information, read CUT Calendar 2025.

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3.2 Report Submittal and Identification Sheet

Diploma in Engineering Technology

Programme:
Mechanical Engineering

Module name: Mechanical Engineering Design I

Module code: M E D 2 1 A

Graduate Attribute (GA) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

assessment: X X X X X X

Design of a Rolling Machine Table for

Bending of Sheet Metal
Activity Number: 4
Final Report

Due date: 2 0 2 5

Lecturer: Mrs. M. K. E. Ramosoeu

Declaration of Own Group Work

We hereby declare that the content of this project is our own group work, as defined and constituted in the
Rules and Regulations of the Central University of Technology, Free State.
(Please consult the Programme Guide of the Department).

GROUP NUMBER:

STUDENT NUMBER: STUDENT SURNAME & INITIALS:

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3.3 Report Rubric

Possible late
Group Number Mark Earned submission Final Mark

MED21A – MECHANICAL ENGINEERING DESIGN I – FINAL REPORT ACTIVITY 4

RUBRIC
Needs Meets
Attribute Inadequate Improvement Expectations Weight Mark
0-1-2-3 4-5-6 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Standard report
writing format
used with index,
list of figures
Standard report
and tables,
Report Standard report writing format
nomenclature
Writing writing format used with index 10%
and list of
Format not used and list of
references
references
according to
Harvard
referencing
method
Clear problem
Problem description with
Clear problem
description all sub-problems
Problem description with
unclear, not all listed in the 10%
description all sub-problems
sub-problems correct
listed
listed chronological
order
Limited amount All possible and
No possible
of applicable applicable
Delimitations delimitations 10%
delimitations delimitations
listed
listed listed
Codes and/or
standards
Codes and/or applicable to
No applicable standards final products
Codes and
codes and/or applicable to listed and 10%
Standards
standards listed final product ranked
listed according to
applicability and
importance
All the required
Limited number design
All the required
Product of applicable specifications
design
Design design listed in tabled 10%
specifications
Specifications specifications format with a
listed
listed possible method
for validation
Less than three At Least three More than three
Proposed
possible possible possible 10%
Concepts
solutions solutions solutions

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 proposed for proposed for proposed for
each sub- each sub- each sub-
problem problem problem
The applicability
The applicability The applicability
of the proposals
of the proposals of the proposals
for each sub-
for each sub- for each sub-
problem were
problem were problem were
evaluated
Evaluations evaluated evaluated
against a 10%
of Concepts against an against a
complete and
incomplete set complete set of
weighed set of
of applicable applicable
applicable
design design
design
specifications specifications
specifications.
Freehand
Freehand sketches were
sketches were made to
No freehand made to motivate the
Sketches sketches were motivate the applicability of 10%
made applicability of each possible
each possible solution, the
solution final concept
were sketched
Only the
Not all critical necessary All critical
dimensions critical dimensions
Calculations 10%
were dimensions were
determined were determined
determined
All the required
2D and 3D
All the required
drawings were
2D and 3D
No CAD made in CAD. A
drawings were
Drawings drawings were complete Bill of 10%
made in CAD
made Materials with
estimated costs
for each item
was added

11
3.4 Report Graduate Attributes (GAs) Rubric

GA ASSESSMENT: MED21A – MECHANICAL ENGINEERING DESIGN I Yes

FINAL REPORT ACTIVITY 4 RUBRIC Evaluated =1
in No =
0
Graduate Attribute 1: Problem Solving
1.1 The problem is analysed and defined and criteria are identified for an
acceptable solution. A1 & A4
1.2 Relevant information and engineering knowledge and skills are
identified and used for solving the problem. A3 & A4
1.3 Various approaches are considered and formulated that would lead to
workable solutions. A2 & A4
1.4 Solutions are modelled and analysed. A2 & A4
1.5 Solutions are evaluated and the best solution is selected. A2 & A4
1.6 The solution is formulated and presented in an appropriate form. A2 & A4
Graduate Attribute 2: Application of Scientific and Engineering Knowledge
2.1 An appropriate mix of knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural
science and engineering science knowledge at a fundamental level is
brought to bear on the solution of well-defined engineering problems. A3 & A4
2.2 Applicable principles and laws are used. A3 & A4
2.3 Engineering materials, components, systems or processes are
analysed. A2& A4
2.4 Concepts and ideas are presented in a logical and methodical manner. A2&A4
2.5 Reasoning about engineering materials, components, systems or
processes is performed. A2&A4
2.6 Procedures for dealing with uncertain/ undefined/ill-defined variables
are outlined and justified. A3 &A4
2.7 Work is performed within the boundaries of the practice area A3 & A4
Graduate Attribute 3: Engineering Design
3.1 The design problem is formulated to satisfy user needs, applicable
standards, codes of practice and legislation. A1 & A4
3.2 The design process is planned and managed to focus on important
issues and recognises and deals with constraints. A1 & A4
3.3 Knowledge, information and resources are acquired and evaluated in
order to apply appropriate principles and design tools to provide a
workable solution. A3 & A4
3.4 Design tasks are performed that include analysis and optimisation of
the product, or system or process, subject to relevant premises,
assumptions and constraints. A2 & A4
3.5 Alternatives are evaluated for implementation and a preferred solution
is selected based on techno-economic analysis and judgement. A2 & A4
3.6 The design logic and relevant information is communicated in a
technical report. A3 & A4
3.7 Procedures are applied to evaluate the selected design and assessed
in terms of the impact and benefits. A2 & A4
Graduate Attribute 5: Engineering methods, skills, tools, including Information
Technology
5.1 The method, skill or tool is assessed for applicability and limitations
against the required result. A3 & A4
5.2 The method, skill or tool is applied correctly. A3 & A4
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5.3 Results produced by the method, skill or tool are tested and assessed A3 & A4
5.4 Relevant computer applications are selected and used. A3 & A4
Graduate Attribute 6: Professional and Technical Communication
6.1 The structure, style and language of written and oral communication is
appropriate for the purpose of the communication and the target audience. A4 & A5
6.2 Graphics used are appropriate and effective in enhancing the meaning
of the text. A2 & A4
6.3 Visual materials used enhance oral communications. A5
6.4 Information is provided in a format that can be used by others involved
in the engineering activity. A3 & A4
6.5 Oral communication is delivered with the intended meaning being
apparent. A5
Graduate Attribute 8: Individual, Team and Multidisciplinary working
8.1 The principles of planning, organising, leading and controlling are
explained. A2P & Intv
8.2 Individual work is carried out effectively, strategically and on time. A3 & A4
8.3 Individual contributions made to team activities support the output of
the team as a whole. A2P & Intv
8.4 Functioning as a team leader is demonstrated. A2P & Intv
8.5 A project is organised and managed. A1 & A4
8.6 Effective communication carried out in the context of individual and
team work. A2P & A5

Graduate Attribute 10: Engineering Professionalism

10.1 The nature and complexity of ethical dilemmas is described in terms
of required practices, legislation and limitations of authority. A2 & A4
10.2 The ethical implications of engineering decisions are described in
terms of the impact on environment, the business, costs and
trustworthiness. A2 & A4
10.3 Judgements in decision making during problem solving and design
are ethical and within acceptable boundaries of current competence. A2 & A4
10.4 Responsibility is accepted for consequences stemming from own
actions or inaction. A2 & A4
10.5 Decision making is limited to area of current competence. A2 & A4

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3.5 Report Layout

Cover page own Design

Assignment/Project Submittal and Identification Sheet
Attendance register (group meetings minimum three times per Activity)
Writing Centre attendance letter (Writing Centre meetings minimum one time per
Activity)
Table of Contents
List of Symbols
List of Tables
List of Figures
List of Equations
Chapter 1 – Introduction, Definition of Problem
1. Introduction (300 words)

2. Literature reviews (800 to 1000 words)

3. Problem Statement

4. Sub-Problems

The project will be divided into two (2) subproblems, namely:

Subproblem A. in which you must state the following:

1. Subproblem Statement
2. State the delimitations
3. List the Codes, formulas, theories, procedures, or standards applicable
4. Tabulate detailed the product design specifications

Subproblem B. , which you must state the following:

1. Subproblem Statement
2. State the delimitations
3. List the Codes, formulas, theories, procedures or standards applicable
4. Tabulate detailed the product design specifications

14
 Chapter 2 – Conceptual Design
HIND
(freehand sketches, paragraphs to explain, and advantages & disadvantages of
each concept)

2.1 Initial Concepts

Subproblem A:
(Minimum of three concepts are required)
HIND
freehand sketches to illustrate each concept
paragraph to explain each idea (in your paragraph, refer to sketches)
advantages and disadvantages of each concept

Subproblem B:
(Minimum of three concepts are required)
HIND
freehand sketches to illustrate each concept.
paragraph to explain each concept (in your paragraph, refer to sketches)
advantages and disadvantages of each concept

2.2 Evaluation of Concepts for Subproblems

HIND
Table 1 Evaluation of Solutions/Ideas/Concepts for Each Sub-Problem

Chapter 3 – Results and Discussions

3.1. Best Concept

HIND
(freehand sketch and paragraphs)

3.2. Design Specifications

HIND
(Design specification of components in Table form)

3.3. Bill of materials

HIND
(Estimated prices in Table form)

3.4. Discussions

HIND
(two or three paragraphs to discuss the results)
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 Chapter 4 – Conclusion

HIND
Final Concept
(SolidWorks Isometric drawing
and paragraphs)

Reference

List of references

Appendices

A- Calculations
B- Solidworks Detailed Drawings (SolidWorks 2D & 3D drawings of
components)

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4. PROJECT PRESENTATION INFORMATION

4.1 Instructions

• Students will be given three attempts to submit a presentation with audio to

address GA6.3 and only the last attempt will be marked.
• Only the group leader must upload the presentation in PowerPoint format.
• Maximum ten (10) PowerPoint slides.
• One (01) PowerPoint Presentation per group. Each group submits its group work.
• For the PowerPoint Presentation with audio submission, the lecturer will mark
the presentation. The submission date is to be announced on eThuto.
• Students should remember that the design report is subjected to TURNITIN TOOL
on eThuto as submitted, and a maximum of 20% for the similarity report and
20% AI written report results are acceptable.
• Plagiarism is considered extremely serious misconduct, resulting in a student
being expelled from CUT; for more information, read CUT Calendar 2024.

17
4.2 Presentation Submittal and Identification Sheet

Diploma in Engineering Technology

Programme:
Mechanical Engineering

Module name: Mechanical Engineering Design I

Module code: M E D 2 1 A

Graduate Attribute (GA) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

assessment: X

Design of a Rolling Machine Table for

Bending of Sheet Metal
Activity Number: 5
Presentation

Due date: 2 0 2 4

Lecturer: Mrs. M. K. E. Ramosoeu

Declaration of Own Group Work

We hereby declare that the content of this project is our own group work, as defined and
constituted in the Rules and Regulations of the Central University of Technology, Free
State.
(Please consult the Programme Guide of the Department).

GROUP NUMBER:

STUDENT NUMBER: STUDENT SURNAME & INITIALS:

18
4.3 Presentation Rubric

Group Mark Earned Possible late Final Mark

Number: submission

MED21A – MECHANICAL ENGINEERING DESIGN I – PRESENTATION RUBRIC

Attribute Inadequate Needs Meets Expectations Weight Mark

Improvement
0-1-2-3 4-5-6 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
Standard Below Average Good to above- 25%
and average average
structure of
contents
Standard of Below Average Good to above- 25%
visual average average
materials
Meaning of No Not Really Yes 25%
the
presentation
apparent
Answers Below Average Good to above- 25%
presented average average

4.4 Presentation Graduate Attributes (GAs) Rubric

GA ASSESSMENT: MED21A – MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Evaluated Yes = 1

DESIGN I – PRESENTATION RUBRIC in No = 0

Graduate Attribute 6: Professional and Technical Communication

6.1 The structure, style and language of written and oral A4 & A5
communication is appropriate for the purpose of the
communication and the target audience.
6.3 Visual materials used enhance oral communications. A5
6.4 Information is provided in a format that can be used by others A3&A5
involved in the engineering activity.
6.5 Oral communication is delivered with the intended meaning A5
being apparent.

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4.5 Presentation Layout

The students must use a maximum of ten (14) PowerPoint slides, including audio by
each group member.

1. Presentation Submittal and Identification Sheet

2. Introduction
3. Literature (outline an essential part of your literature. Do not forget to reference it
where applicable).
4. Problem statement
5. Outline subproblems briefly.
6. Delimitations
7. Standards applicable
8. Table of product design specifications
9. Concepts
10. Best concept.
11. 2D drawings
12. 3D drawings
13. Table of design specification
14. Bill of material showing costs
15. Conclusion

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5. PROJECT PEER REVIEW INFORMATION

5.1 General Instructions

• Each student will receive the peer review questionnaire for GA8 via the link.
• Each group will receive its link.
• Each member of a group must evaluate their peers.

5.2 Peer Review Rubric

Possible late
Student number and name Mark Earned submission Final Mark

Needs Meets
Attribute Inadequite Improvement Expectations Weight Mark
0-1-2-3 4-5-6 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
The student's
The student's The student's
ability to Plan,
Ability to Plan, ability to Plan, ability to Plan,
Organize, Lead
Organize, Lead Organize, Lead Organize, Lead 25%
and Control
and Control and Control is and Control is
needs
acceptable acceptional
improvement
The student The student
The student
Individual made an made an
made limited
Contributions acceptable acceptional
contributions
(Concept contribution contribution 25%
during brain
Design - Brain during brain during brain
storming
Storming) storming storming
activities
activities activities
The student's
The student's
ability to The student's
ability to
Functioning as function as ability to function
function as 25%
Team Leader team leader as team leader is
team leader is
needs acceptional
acceptable
improvement
The student The student's
The student
Effective were not able ability to
were able to
Communication to communicate in
communicate 25%
in Context of communicate the contaxt of
effectively on
Team Work effectively in team work is
the team
the team acceptional

21
5.3 Peer Review Graduate Attributes (GAs) Rubric

GA ASSESSMENT: MED21A – MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Evaluated in Yes = 1

DESIGN I – PRESENTATION RUBRIC No = 0
Graduate Attribute 8 : Individual, Team and Multidisciplinary working
8.1 The principles of planning, organising, leading and
controlling are explained. A2P & Intv 1
8.3 Individual contributions made to team activities support the
output of the team as a whole. A2P & Intv 1
8.4 Functioning as a team leader is demonstrated. A2P & Intv 1
8.6 Effective communication carried out in the context of
individual and teamwork. A2P & Intv 1

THE END

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