Automotive Engineering Technology: Practical Applications
Unit Outlines

Automotive Engineering Technology: Practical Applications

AI Generated Intermediate 60 hours 10 topics

Learning Objectives

5 objectives
  • Understand the fundamental principles and history of automotive engineering technology.
  • Analyze engine design and performance factors influencing automotive engines.
  • Explain vehicle dynamics, handling characteristics, and the role of suspension and steering systems.
  • Evaluate automotive electronic systems and their integration into modern vehicles.
  • Explore alternative powertrain technologies and sustainable automotive engineering practices.

Content Outline

Preview

Unit 3642: Automotive Engineering Technology

1. Introduction to Automotive Engineering Technology

  • Overview of the field
  • Historical development and milestones
  • Importance within the automotive industry
  • Applications and career opportunities

2. Engine Design and Performance

  • Fundamentals of internal combustion engines (ICEs)
    • Types of ICE: gasoline, diesel
  • Key engine components and their functions
  • Engine design principles
  • Factors affecting engine performance
    • Compression ratio
    • Fuel type and combustion process
    • Engine tuning and efficiency

3. Vehicle Dynamics and Handling

  • Principles of vehicle dynamics
  • Suspension systems
    • Types: independent, dependent, active suspension
    • Role in ride comfort and handling
  • Steering mechanisms
    • Types: rack and pinion, recirculating ball
  • Factors influencing vehicle handling and stability
    • Weight distribution
    • Center of gravity
    • Tire characteristics

4. Automotive Electronics and Control Systems

  • Role of electronics in modern vehicles
  • Engine Control Units (ECUs)
  • Key sensors and actuators
    • Oxygen sensors, throttle position sensors, etc.
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems
  • Diagnostic and communication protocols (e.g., OBD-II)

5. Alternative Powertrains and Sustainable Technologies

  • Electric Vehicles (EVs)
    • Battery types and management systems
  • Hybrid Vehicles
    • Parallel and series hybrid configurations
  • Fuel Cells and Hydrogen technologies
  • Sustainable practices in automotive engineering
    • Emission reductions
    • Lightweight materials

6. Materials and Manufacturing Processes in Automotive Engineering

  • Common automotive materials
    • Metals, composites, plastics
  • Material properties affecting vehicle performance
  • Manufacturing processes
    • Casting, forging, stamping, additive manufacturing
  • Impact on safety, efficiency, and cost

7. Vehicle Safety and Crashworthiness

  • Principles of vehicle safety design
  • Crashworthiness and energy absorption
  • Occupant protection systems
    • Airbags, seatbelt systems, crumple zones
  • Regulations and safety standards
    • NCAP, FMVSS, Euro NCAP

8. Automotive Testing and Validation

  • Importance of testing in automotive engineering
  • Types of testing
    • Performance testing
    • Durability and reliability testing
    • Emissions testing
  • Compliance with regulatory standards

9. Automotive Maintenance and Troubleshooting

  • Basic maintenance procedures
    • Oil change, brake inspection, fluid levels
  • Diagnostic techniques
    • Use of diagnostic tools and software
  • Troubleshooting common automotive issues
    • Engine misfire, electrical faults, suspension noise

10. Emerging Trends in Automotive Engineering

  • Connected vehicle technologies
  • Autonomous driving systems
  • Artificial intelligence and machine learning applications
  • Future implications for the automotive industry
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Quick Information

Unit Automotive Engineering Technology: Practical Applications
Difficulty Intermediate
Duration60 hours
Topics10
CreatedJul 22, 2026
GeneratedJul 22, 2026 12:51

Prerequisites

  • Basic knowledge of mechanical principles
  • Fundamental understanding of physics and electronics
  • Introductory knowledge of automotive systems

Recommended Resources

  • Heisler, Heinz. "Advanced Vehicle Technology." 2nd Edition, Butterworth-Heinemann, 2002.
  • Bosch Automotive Handbook, 10th Edition, Robert Bosch GmbH, 2018.
  • Gilles, Tim. "Automotive Service: Inspection, Maintenance, Repair." Cengage Learning, 2017.
  • Rajput, R.K. "A Textbook of Automobile Engineering." Laxmi Publications, 2017.
  • Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) International - Technical Papers and Journals.
  • Online resources: Automotive Engineering Society (SAE), IEEE Xplore for automotive electronics.
  • Diagnostic tools: OBD-II scanners and automotive diagnostic software.

Unit Topics

10
Introduction to Automotive Engineering Technology
An overview of the field of automotive engineering technology, including its history, importance, an...
Engine Design and Performance
Exploring the design principles of automotive engines, including internal combustion engines, engine...
Vehicle Dynamics and Handling
Understanding the principles of vehicle dynamics, including suspension systems, steering mechanisms,...
Automotive Electronics and Control Systems
Examining the role of electronics in modern vehicles, including engine control units, sensors, actua...
Alternative Powertrains and Sustainable Technologies
Investigating alternative powertrain technologies such as electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and fu...
Materials and Manufacturing Processes in Automotive Engineering
Exploring the materials used in automotive construction, different manufacturing processes, and thei...
Vehicle Safety and Crashworthiness
Studying the principles of vehicle safety design, crashworthiness, occupant protection systems, and...
Automotive Testing and Validation
Understanding the importance of testing and validation in automotive engineering, including performa...
Automotive Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Learning basic maintenance procedures, diagnostic techniques, and troubleshooting strategies for ide...
Emerging Trends in Automotive Engineering
Exploring current and future trends in automotive engineering technology, such as connected vehicles...