MEC3491

Statistical analysis of mechanical systems

M C Thompson and B J Treloar

3 points
* 22 lectures and 22 laboratory classes
* Second semester
* Clayton
* Prerequisites: MAT2910
* Corequisites: MAT3910

Objectives This subject has two broad objectives; firstly, to introduce the concepts of the statistical control of manufacturing processes necessary to achieve appropriate quality control; and secondly, to review the methods and tools for recording and analysing data from processes subject to statistical fluctuation and the effect of such processes on mechanical systems. Sufficient basic statistics is presented to allow concepts in these two areas to be developed.

Synopsis Discrete random variables, probability distributions, methods of estimation, decision theory. Control charts applied to manufacturing. Regression, prediction, and correlation analysis. Stochastic processes, convolution, Fourier analysis, digital spectral analysis, with applications to mechanical engineering problems. Experimental techniques including accuracy of measurements and analysis of finite length records.

Assessment Examination (formal written): 80%
* Assignment: 20%

Reference

Walpole and Myers Probability and statistics for engineers and scientists
Newland An introduction to random vibrations and spectral analysis