Module Details

Module Code: AUTO6008
Title: Vehicle Drivetrains - Theory
Long Title: Vehicle Drivetrains - Theory
NFQ Level: Fundamental
Valid From: Semester 2 - 2023/24 ( January 2024 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 5
Field of Study: 5251 - Automotive Engineering
Module Delivered in: 3 programme(s)
Module Description: This module provides a theoretical introduction to the design, layout and operating principles of automobile transmission and running gear systems.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Identify components of motor vehicle braking, steering, suspension and transmission systems.
LO2 Describe the basic operating principles, including advantages and limitations of various types of braking, steering, suspension and transmission systems.
LO3 Describe the layout/construction of basic components within the vehicle running gear and the effects of component wear and failure.
LO4 Outline the service and maintenance requirements for transmission and running gear systems.
LO5 Interpret workshop manuals and safety precautions relevant to motor vehicle transmission and running gear systems.
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named MTU module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).

Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. You may not earn additional credit for the same learning and therefore you may not enrol in this module if you have successfully completed any modules in the incompatible list.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section.

No requirements listed
 
Indicative Content
SAFETY
Safety precautions for working on motor vehicles, with particular emphasis on brakes, steering, suspension and transmission systems. Safe use of tools and equipment. Use of fire extinguishers, oil spillage kits, etc as applicable.
TRANSMISSION SYSTEM BASICS
Functions, layout and operating principle of basic transmission system components including clutch, gearbox and final drive. Advantages and disadvantages of different systems. Basic operations involved in routine maintenance of transmission systems.
BRAKING SYSTEM BASICS
Principles of brake system operation. Requirements for an effective braking system. Basic system layout and operating principle of mechanical and hydraulic braking systems. Brake fluid properties and relevant precautions. Requirements for routine maintenance of braking systems.
SUSPENSION SYSTEM BASICS
Functions of motor vehicle suspension systems. Construction and operation of basic suspension system layouts. Suspension damper construction & operation. Maintenance requirements for suspension systems.
STEERING & TYRES
Ackerman principle of steering. Basic steering geometry angles. Guidelines and precautions for carrying out steering geometry checks. Simple Rack & Pinion type steering layout and operation. Basic tyre construction and markings, safety and legal considerations. Tyre balancing and maintenance requirements.
ALTERNATIVE DRIVE TRAINS
Basic drivetrain layouts used in electric and hybrid vehicle applications.
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Short Answer Questions % of Total Mark 30
Timing Week 5 Learning Outcomes 1,2
Assessment Description
Assessment based on multiple choice and short answer type questions.
Assessment Type Short Answer Questions % of Total Mark 30
Timing Week 9 Learning Outcomes 2,3,4
Assessment Description
Assessment based on multiple choice and short answer type questions.
Assessment Type Short Answer Questions % of Total Mark 40
Timing Week 13 Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4,5
Assessment Description
Assessment based on multiple choice and short answer type questions.
No End of Module Formal Examination
Reassessment Requirement
Coursework Only
This module is reassessed solely on the basis of re-submitted coursework. There is no repeat written examination.

The University reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Theory Every Week 4.00 4
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Review of lecture material & further study Every Week 3.00 3
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 4.00
Workload: Part Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Theory Every Week 4.00 4
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Review of lecture material & further study Every Week 3.00 3
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 4.00
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Tim Gilles. (2019), Automotive Service, Cengage Learning, p.1792, [ISBN: 9781337794039].
Supplementary Book Resources
  • Robert Bosch GmbH. (2022), Bosch Automotive Handbook, 11th Edition. Wiley, p.2048, [ISBN: 9781119911906].
  • Denton, Tom. (2018), Alternative Fuel Vehicles, Routledge, Oxon, [ISBN: 9781138201316].
  • Victor Albert Walter Hillier,Alma Hillier,Calex Uk Calex UK Ltd. (2012), Hillier's Fundamentals of Motor Vehicle Technology, 6th Edition. Ch 3,4, Oxford University Press, USA, p.0, [ISBN: 9781408515181].
  • Allan Bonnick,Derek Newbold. (2011), A Practical Approach to Motor Vehicle Engineering and Maintenance, 3rd Edition. 21-23, Routledge, p.480, [ISBN: 9780080969985].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
Other Resources
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_EABMT_8 Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Automotive Business Management and Technology 2 Mandatory
CR_TTMGT_7 Bachelor of Science in Automotive Technology and Management 2 Mandatory
CR_TTMAT_6 Higher Certificate in Engineering in Automotive Technology and Management 2 Mandatory