Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit is concerned with cardiovascular biomechanics which is the study of the function and the structure of the cardiovascular system using the methods of mechanics. This lies at the heart of all major cardiovascular diseases, which are responsible for about one-third of the world's deaths. The underpinning principle which is referred to several times in this unit is that the cardiovascular system adapts in order to normalise its mechanical environment. The cardiovascular system is able to do this because mechanical forces are sensed by tissues, and deviations from 'normal' results in biological changes which affect structure.

This unit introduces students to the far-reaching field of cardiovascular biomechanics in health and disease, and provides students with new skills obtained through coursework, laboratories and assignments.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) describe the structure and function of the entire cardiovascular system; (2) evaluate the role of material behaviour in cardiovascular health and disease; (3) evaluate the role of blood, its components and movement in cardiovascular health and disease; (4) evaluate the mechanisms of the heart and their role in cardiovascular health and disease; (5) explain how the cardiovascular system responds to mechanical stimuli; (6) apply computational methods (fluid mechanics) to analyse haemodynamics and interpret results; (7) apply computational methods (solid mechanics) to analyse displacements, stresses and strains in the cardiovascular system and interpret results; (8) design and execute experiments that assess cardiovascular function and interpret results; and (9) write concise reports using appropriate discourse conventions.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) project and (2) a final examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Ben Zwick
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in 62550 Master of Professional Engineering (Biomedical Engineering specialisation
or Chemical Engineering specialisation
or Mechanical Engineering specialisation)
or
Enrolment in
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) or an associated Combined Degree
and BMEG3001 Engineering and the Human Body
Advisable prior study
PHYL2002 Physiology of Cells and
ENSC3023 Introduction Biomedical Engineering
or BMEG3001 Engineering and Human Body
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
practical classes and lab classes: 2 hours per week
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.