Biomechanical Systems module (ME51006)

Explore the mechanics of the biological tissues and the application of biomechanical principles in medicine, surgery, and the design of medical devices

Credits
20
Module code
ME51006
Level
5
Semester
Semester 1
School
School of Science and Engineering
Discipline
Biomedical Engineering

You will gain a strong theoretical foundation in the mechanical behaviour of biological tissues and structures. The module covers stress analysis, structural instability, and dimensional analysis applied to musculoskeletal structures and medical devices. You will explore kinematics and kinetics of the human body in motion, biocompatibility and materials selection for implants and surgical instruments, and the measurement and testing methods used in biomechanics research and clinical applications. 

​Teaching is delivered through a mix of lectures, laboratories, and interactive tutorials, with adaptive exercises tailored to individual learning. The module develops competence in scientific writing and reporting alongside technical biomechanical knowledge (computer aided design, finite element modelling, mechanical testing). 

​What you will learn 

​In this module, you will: 

  • ​The mechanical properties of biological materials including bone, skin, tendon, ligament, muscle and cartilage. 
  • ​Principles of rigid body kinematics and dynamics applied to musculoskeletal biomechanics, including walking and running 
  • ​Stress analysis techniques (tension, compression, bending, shear, torsion) and structural instability applied to biological structures 
  • ​Biocompatibility requirements and materials selection for implants and surgical instruments 
  • ​Biomechanical measurement, testing, and manufacturing applications 
  • ​How biomechanical principles are applied in medicine and surgery, including implant design 

​By the end of this module, you will be able to: 

  • ​Demonstrate knowledge of the mechanical properties of living tissues 
  • ​Apply principles of rigid body kinematics and dynamics to biomechanical analysis 
  • ​Demonstrate familiarity with material properties, biocompatibility, and materials selection for implants and surgical instruments 
  • ​Analyse the effects of external loads and forces on the musculoskeletal system and the soft tissues of the body​

Assignments / assessments

​​Coursework (30%)

  • ​This will consist of essays and assignments 

​Written Exam (70%)

Teaching methods / timetable

  • ​​Lectures 
  • ​Tutorials 
  • ​Laboratory sessions 
  • ​Self-study​

Courses

This module is available on the following courses:

Module lead