This course forms a foundation for understanding the scope and nature of machines; possibilities for achieving more efficient work outcomes with machines; how to make better choices of what machine to use for what job, and how to manage and maintain machinery you use.

Machines include obvious things such as cars and garden equipment; but also machinery used in factories, offices and other workplaces, and machines used to make life easier in our houses, from kitchen appliances to vacuum cleaners. A kitchen food processor is a machine, and are cars and robots. This course is relevant to all of these things.

When you better understand machines, you have a greater capacity to work not only with machinery; but in any industry.

There are 9 lessons in this course:

• Introduction to Engines and Motors
• Engine Characteristics
• Machines and their parts
• Drive Mechanisms -Transmissions, Gears, Belts
• Managing Deterioration
• Optimising Function and Longevity
• Brake Systems
• The Mechanics Workshop
• Maintenance and Repair

Each lesson culminates in an assignment which is submitted to the school, marked by the school’s tutors and returned to you with any relevant suggestions, comments, and if necessary, extra reading.

Mechanics is the study of machines. A machine is made up of multiple parts, it is designed to take movement or force, and translate that ‘energy’ to perform a specific task.

The scope and nature of machines is far beyond the scope of what anyone could study in even a lifetime; but most of the concepts and applications hare common principles.  As you study this course and different parts of different machines, your understanding and perhaps even intuition to work with any machinery will develop. You will gradually develop a better capacity to look at, evaluate and understand any sort of machine: how it works, the functions each component performs, and what responses are appropriate to maintain or repair function when things go wrong.

1. The first part of a machine is the power source (e.g. an engine, motor or even man power.
2. The second part of a machine is the part that catches and translates energy from the power source.

Machines have become so much a part of modern life that we can easily take them for granted. Most people don’t even give a second thought to how the machines they use are functioning; that is until they stop functioning.

Learning more about mechanics can enable you to do so much more with machines though, from using them more appropriately and safely to maintaining and repairing them when required.

Some machinery is relatively simple and easier to learn about, but other machines can be much more complex and will require far more learning and experience to properly understand.

This course lays a foundation for understanding and working with all machines, each lesson building upon what you learnt in the previous ones, gradually expanding your awareness and understanding of how and where engines can be used to power machines, and how different types of machines function.

A Statement of Attainment in Mechanics from Courses Direct would be highly beneficial for a diverse range of individuals and professionals, including:

• Aspiring Mechanics:
  • Individuals looking to start a career in automotive or mechanical engineering who need foundational knowledge and practical skills.
• Automotive Technicians:
  • Current automotive technicians and mechanics who wish to formalize their skills and stay updated with the latest technologies and practices.
• Mechanical Engineers:
  • Engineers seeking to enhance their understanding of mechanical systems and improve their technical proficiency.
• Maintenance and Repair Workers:
  • Professionals responsible for the maintenance and repair of machinery, vehicles, and mechanical systems in various industries.
• Industrial and Manufacturing Personnel:
  • Workers in industrial and manufacturing settings who operate, maintain, or design mechanical systems and equipment.
• Construction Workers and Equipment Operators:
  • Construction workers and equipment operators who need to understand the mechanics of heavy machinery and construction equipment.
• DIY Enthusiasts and Hobbyists:
  • Individuals passionate about repairing and maintaining their own vehicles or machinery who want to gain professional-level skills.
• Aerospace and Aviation Technicians:
  • Technicians and engineers working in the aerospace and aviation industries who require a deep understanding of mechanical principles.
• Marine and Naval Technicians:
  • Professionals working with marine and naval vessels who need expertise in the mechanics of ships and other watercraft.
• Educators and Trainers:
  • Educators and trainers in technical and vocational education looking to incorporate mechanics into their curriculum and improve their teaching methodologies.
• Students and Recent Graduates:
  • Students and recent graduates in mechanical engineering, automotive technology, or related fields who want to specialize in mechanics to enhance their career prospects.
• Entrepreneurs and Business Owners:
  • Entrepreneurs and business owners in mechanical-related industries aiming to improve their technical knowledge and enhance their business offerings.

By obtaining a Statement of Attainment in Mechanics from Courses Direct, these individuals can enhance their technical skills, improve their practical knowledge, and open up new opportunities for career advancement and professional growth in various sectors involving mechanical systems and technologies.