Module ENGI46515: Biomechanics

Department: Engineering

ENGI46515: Biomechanics

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• To provide a basic overview of anatomy and physiology relevant to the study of Biomechanics, along with an insight into the methods of characterisation of physiological function and body dynamics.
• To provide an overview of the mechanical properties of soft and hard tissues (in healthy and pathological conditions).
• To explore the analytical, numerical, and experimental techniques used for studying physiological solid mechanics (from cell to tissue, to organ level) and human body dynamics.

Content

• Multiscale overview of biological tissue structure and functions.
• Mechanics of biological tissues (soft tissues, hard tissue, cell mechanics).
• Techniques for characterisation of physiological tissues.
• Constitutive Equations of isotropic, orthotropic bio-solid materials and non-hookean behaviour.
• Rigid body dynamics applied to the human body.
• Gait Analysis and Inverse Dynamics.

Learning Outcomes

• A basic understanding of functional anatomy and physiology suitable for the study of Biomechanics.
• An understanding of the constitutive equations used for studying bio-solid mechanics.
• An appreciation of complexity, benefits and limitations of the models currently used/being developed for studying Biomechanics and Biomaterials.
• An awareness of the different biological material characterisation methods, from cell to tissue, to organ level.
• An understanding of the clinical applications of biomechanics (gait analysis, inverse dynamics).
• AHEP4 Learning Outcomes: In order to satisfy Professional Engineering Institution (PEI) accreditation requirements the following Accreditation of Higher Education Programmes (AHEP4) Learning Outcomes are assessed within this module:
• M1. Apply a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems. Much of the knowledge will be at the forefront of the particular subject of study and informed by a critical awareness of new developments and the wider context of engineering (exam assessed).
• M3. Select and apply appropriate computational and analytical techniques to model complex problems, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed (exam assessed).
• M4. Select and critically evaluate technical literature and other sources of information to solve complex problems (exam assessed).

• Analytical methods in Biomechanics.
• Computational methods in Biomechanics.
• Ability of comparing different methods to solve the biomechanical problem.
• The capability to independently analyse the Biomechanical problem.
• The capability of performing literature search on a specific biomechanics problem.
• The ability of interacting and communicating with experts coming from different fields (biological sciences, biomedical sciences, clinical medicine) thanks to a common language.

• Capacity for independent self-learning within the bounds of professional practice.
• Specialised numerical skills appropriate to an engineer.
• Mathematics relevant to the application of advanced engineering concepts.
• Appreciation of the assumptions and limitation of constitutive modelling, capability of assessing and quantifying model accuracy.
• Develop an ability to communicate technical concepts (technical writing) effectively.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• The module content is delivered through lectures and reinforced by Formative Problem Sheets and Problem Classes, equipping students with the required problem-solving capability.
• Throughout the academic year, students will be required to submit Formative Problem Sheets via the virtual learning environment to monitor and consolidate their understanding as the course progresses.
• Students will attend one Discussion Class in the Michaelmas term and a second in the Epiphany term. These sessions provide an opportunity to consolidate material covered in lectures and to receive guidance and support from a demonstrator.
• At the start of the academic year, students will complete a benchmark test to assess prior knowledge and highlight areas needing further consolidation. This diagnostic activity directs students towards appropriate revision resources and independent study.
• A mock examination will be held in the Epiphany term to provide a formative, exam‑style experience. Students may then discuss their performance informally with academic staff, either during Office Hours or an Academic Adviser session, and receive targeted feedback ahead of the summative assessment.
• A further Revision Class will be held ahead of the main examination period to support students in preparing for their final assessments.
• Written timed examinations are appropriate because of the wide range of analytical, in-depth material covered in this module and allow students to demonstrate the ability to solve advanced problems independently.
• Students are encouraged to engage with staff Office Hours for one‑to‑one or small‑group discussion of any aspect of the module. These sessions are offered weekly during teaching, timings are published on Learn Ultra.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Formative assessment is provided by means of formative problem sheets, benchmark test and mock examinations.

■ Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.