INDUSTRIAL PROJECT 2

EIP3702

STUDY GUIDE

DEPARTMENT OF MINING AND ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA
 INDUSTRIAL PROJECT 2

EIP3702

STUDY GUIDE

Compiled by: E. Ngomane

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PREFACE

1. Introduction

Welcome to industrial project EIP3702

This module focuses on the second and final part of your industrial project i.e. the detail design and
implementation phases of your project. The inputs into this module are the preferred concept (which
was selected in EIP3701), a project risk register as well as a project schedule. This study guide provides
a high‐level discussion of certain aspects of the engineering project such as modelling and simulation,
ethics and sustainability, technical presentation as well the deliverables that are required from the
student. The study guide does not provide details on the engineering theories specific to any
engineering field. You are expected to apply your theoretical knowledge to further develop the
concept design of your solution.

Each study unit states the learning outcome and the graduate attributes that a student must be
demonstrated in their project. Although the attributes are broadly defined, but you will realise that as
you conduct each phase of you project you will somehow demonstrate competence thereto. You are
encouraged to read through attributes and keep them in mind throughout your project. The skill of
conducting research and consulting with other professionals is a skill that you continually need to
develop. Technology improvements occur at a rapid rate as such it is important that when you develop
your solution you are aware of the latest trends (by conducting research) in technology for the
selected field. Further, the design must consider possible challenges in implementation or
construction phase of your solution. This means you may have to develop implementation procedures
for your design. In cases, where you are not physically responsible for the implementation, you need
to state the support role you played as the designer/developer of a solution.

The main deliverable for this module is the final project report which must be detailed; in the report
you have to demonstrate the application of your engineering knowledge in solving a broadly defined
engineering problem. This study guide discusses certain aspects that are important in compiling your
project report, these aspects are discussed in the study units and the deliverables thereof are inputs
into the project report. An example is the “modelling and simulations” aspect; simulations enable the

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engineering professional to gain a better understanding with regards to how a preferred design will
function or how well a preferred design meets the design specifications. You have to conduct further
research regarding the type of modelling and simulations required for your selected field (as a brief
introduction is only presented).

Secondly, ethics and sustainability are discussed in this study guide and you are expected to
demonstrate how ethics were applied in your project as well as how the concept of sustainability was
incorporated in your design. Sustainable development is defined as “development that meets the
needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own
needs”. Therefore as you develop your solution you need to demonstrate that your preferred solution
will not compromise the ability of future generations to meet their needs.

Subsequent to submitting your project report, you will be required to make a final oral presentation
of your project to a panel of experts. Take note of the tips and advice that are provided in this module.
In addition, make use any opportunity in the work place to present your project as this will improve
your presentation skills.

It is my hope and intention that at the completion of this module students will be ready to tackle any
industrial project and complete it in line ECSA’s graduate attributes.

Eugene Ngomane

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2. Module Structure

The selected industrial project will be completed over two modules namely: Industrial project 1
(EIP3701) and Industrial Project 2 (EIP3702). Industrial project 1 covers all activities of your project up
to (and including) concept design development and the Industrial project 2 covers all activities detail
design development up to implementation/construction. Therefore this module is registered for the
completion of the second part of your project.

Note: You may only register for EIP3702 after you have passed the EIP3701 module.

3. Purpose of the Module

The purpose of this module is to provide you with an opportunity to apply the acquired theoretical
knowledge in a work environment by conducting a project in an industrial setting. The student will
gain exposure in the development of a project from concept design implementation/construction.
Industrial projects tend to consist of a number of stakeholders and certain level of risks, as such, the
student will be taught basic project management, risk management and communication skills which,
together with acquired power system knowledge, ensure that they acquire certain competencies
required from a potential Engineering Technologist. It is intended to subsequently empower potential
Engineering Technologist to demonstrate that they are capable of applying their acquired knowledge,
understanding, skills, attitudes and values in the engineering working environment.

This module is compulsory and core for the completion of the Advanced Diploma in Electrical
Engineering. On completion of this module, the engineering student would possess a certain level of
competency in the development of engineering solutions in a work environment.

4. Study guide format

 Each study unit contains learning outcomes that students to need achieve.
 There are graduate attributes that respective deliverables from each study unit aim to develop;
these are stated at the beginning of each study unit.
 In the study units there is additional material that must be consulted for further reading, these
are marked by the “[]” parenthesis.

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 At the end of each study unit, there is “additional reading” material from the bibliography section.
This material is intended to provide more information for students regarding a certain topic as
well as to encourage attribute 9 of “Independent Learning”.
 There are “study unit review questions” in each study unit which provide revision on the main
discussion points of the respective study units. These questions also assist the student in
developing certain project deliverables.

5. Study material

Prescribed book(s)

 There are no prescribed books for this module.

Recommended book(s)

 There are no recommended books however the bibliography in each study unit provides
additional reading material.

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Table of contents

Topic Page

Study unit 1: Industrial project 2 ‐ Getting started 7

Study unit 2: Detail design 19

Study unit 3: Modelling and Simulation 30

Study unit 4: Final Project report 38

Study unit 5: Ethics and Sustainability 58

Study unit 6: Scientific writing 76

Study unit 7: Technical Presentation 88

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 Study unit 1: Industrial Project 2 – Getting started

Learning outcomes

On completion of this study unit, you will be able to:

 Understand and explain the layout of this module.

 Develop a schedule in line with the various milestone of this module.
 Demonstrate an understanding of how to handle confidentiality where applicable.
 Explain how the module will be evaluated.

1.1 Introduction

At this stage, the concept design has been completed and approved by your employer and you have
passed the IPE3701 module. The next phase is the detail design phase wherein the solution is
developed in preparation for the implementation phase. This module therefore focuses on the detail
design, implementation and close out phases of your selected project. The module is based in the
workplace, that is, the project is executed in industry under the supervision of an industry supervisor.

Further, by now, the student should be familiar with the workplace and the employer’s process
relating to executing projects. There are two main stakeholders in your project, namely UNISA and
your employer. UNISA’s requirements are stated in this study guide as well as the tutorial letter. It is
the student responsibility to ensure that all requirements are met and that the employer is adequately
informed regarding the status of the project.

The module has been designed such that competency in the following ECSA [1] graduate attributes
are demonstrated:

 Attribute 1: Apply engineering principles to systematically diagnose and solve broadly‐

defined engineering problems.
 Attribute 2: Apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science and engineering sciences to
define and apply engineering procedures, processes, systems and methodologies to solve
broadly‐defined engineering problems.
 Attribute 3: Perform procedural and non‐procedural design of broadly defined components,
systems, works, products or processes to meet desired needs normally within applicable
standards, codes of practice and legislation.

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  Attribute 4: Conduct investigations of broadly‐defined problems through locating, searching
and selecting relevant data from codes, data bases and literature, designing and conducting
experiments, analysing and interpreting results to provide valid conclusions.
 Attribute 5: Use appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering tools, including
information technology, prediction and modelling, for the solution of broadly‐defined
engineering problems, with an understanding of the limitations, restrictions, premises,
assumptions and constraints.
 Attribute 6: Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with engineering audiences
and the affected parties.
 Attribute 7: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of engineering activity
on the society, economy, industrial and physical environment, and address issues by analysis
and evaluation.
 Attribute 8: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of engineering management
principles and apply these to one’s own work, as a member and leader in a team and to
manage projects.
 Attribute 9: Engage in independent and life‐long learning through well‐developed learning
skills.
 Attribute 10: Comprehend and apply ethical principles and commit to professional ethics,
responsibilities and norms of engineering technology practice.

The student will demonstrate competence in the above attributes in the assignments and examination
of this module.

1.2 Project Confidentiality

As UNISA is an academic institution, it is highly recommended that where possible students are
not allocated projects that are not confidential in nature. The idea is that final reports for the
project are archived at the library for future students. A proposal is that in the final report the
actual names of sites e.g. substation be omitted as the aim of the module is to assess whether the
student did apply their knowledge in the workplace. Further, the signature from industry mentor
provides adequate assurance that the project was done at actual sites, even though names may
been altered for confidentiality purposes.

However in cases where the employer prefers their project information to be treated as
confidential, in such cases UNISA and the employer may enter into a confidentiality agreement
and further ensure that the examiners that will assess such a project treat it as confidential.

1.3 Teaching and learning approach

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In an industry setup, working independently is critical; therefore in this module the student is required
to demonstrate the ability of working and learn independently1. The students are expected to consult
with a variety of professionals and related literature in course executing the projects. In cases where
there are tools required (e.g. software simulation packages), the student needs to independently learn
how the software functions in order adequately conduct the required simulations.

The role of the UNISA supervisor is to monitor the progress and conduct the assessment thereof. The
student needs to independently compile a schedule for the project ensuring that the various deadlines
are met. Note: no extensions will be allowed. From time to time, additional material will be posted on
myUnisa to assist the students in preparation of their assessments.

1.4 Learning outcomes

The students will demonstrate competence in the graduate attributes in the various reports and
presentations that will be submitted. Table 1.1 provides additional information relating to the
deliverable and the corresponding graduate attribute. The marking rubrics are available and will be
uploaded on MyUnisa.

Graduate Attributes Delivery where outcome is

demonstrated
Attribute 2: Apply knowledge of mathematics,  Detail design report
natural science and engineering sciences to define
and apply engineering procedures, processes,
systems and methodologies to solve broadly‐
defined engineering problems.
Attribute 3: Perform procedural and non‐  Detail design report
procedural design of broadly defined components,
systems, works, products or processes to meet
desired needs normally within applicable
standards, codes of practice and legislation.
Attribute 4: Conduct investigations of broadly‐  Detail design report
defined problems through locating, searching and
 Final report
selecting relevant data from codes, data bases and
literature, designing and conducting experiments,
analysing and interpreting results to provide valid
conclusions.
Attribute 5: Use appropriate techniques,  Detail design report
resources, and modern engineering tools,
including information technology, prediction and

1
In line with this attribute: “Engage in independent and life‐long learning through well‐developed learning
skills”

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 modelling, for the solution of broadly‐defined  Final report
engineering problems, with an understanding of
the limitations, restrictions, premises,
assumptions and constraints.
Attribute 6: Communicate effectively, both orally  Detail design report
and in writing, with engineering audiences and the
 Final report
affected parties.
 Oral presentation
Attribute 7: Demonstrate knowledge and  Detail design report
understanding of the impact of engineering
 Ethics and sustainability reports
activity on the society, economy, industrial and
physical environment, and address issues by
analysis and evaluation.
Attribute 8: Demonstrate knowledge and  Detail design report
understanding of engineering management
 Final report
principles and apply these to one’s own work, as
a member and leader in a team and to manage
projects.
Attribute 9: Engage in independent and life‐long  Detail design report
learning through well‐developed learning skills.
 Final report
 Oral presentation
Attribute 10: Comprehend and apply ethical  Final report
principles and commit to professional ethics,
responsibilities and norms of engineering
technology practice.
Table 1.1: Graduate attributes and activities wherein the achievement of outcome is demonstrated

1.5 Assessment criteria

The module will consist of two submissions, namely: Progress report (detail design) and a final project
report. The exam mark will be an oral presentation. The final mark for this module is composed of the
following components:

 The assignments. **
 The examination mark. **

Formative assessment

Submission Weight (%) **2

Assignment 1 (Detail design report )
Assignment 2 (Final report)

2
** The actual weights are contained in the tutorial letter for this module

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 Total 100%
Table 1.2: Assignments

Summative assessment

Submission Weight (%) **

Assignments
Exam part 2 (Oral presentation)
Total 100%
Table 1.3: Final semester mark contribution

The examination for this module is an oral presentation and will be presented to a panel by the
students. The oral presentation (PowerPoint slides) is to be submitted a week before the scheduled
oral presentation however the actual dates will be communicated in the tutorial letter.

Note: All submissions are to be typed and ONLY submitted on myUnisa. No handwritten or emailed
submission will be accepted. In addition, for the final report, you will be expected to submit a certain
number of hardcopies.

1.6 Module submission plan

The tutorial letter will spell out the actual dates of submission and examination dates. Table 1.6
provides a high level overview regarding the various submission dates. It is anticipated the students
will receive feedback on all their reports within three weeks (from submission) and it is important that
the next report is not to be submitted until feedback is received from the lecturer.

Activity no. Description Submission month

1 Assignment 1 (Detail design report ) August
2 Assignment 2 (Final project report) October
3 Exam (Oral presentation) November
4 Final semester result provided to students December
Table 1.4: Important dates

Student will be required to make an oral presentation of their project and one week in the month of
November will be dedicated to presentations by all students. It will be expected that the final

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presentations be uploaded on myUnisa a week before the scheduled date and each student must avail
themselves for their scheduled slot.

1.7 UNISA supervision

In the EIP3701 module a UNISA supervisor was allocated to the student; this supervisor will also be
the student supervisor for the EIP3702 module. If there are any changes UNISA will inform the affected
student in writing. The student should proceed with project and may contact the lecturer for any
queries related to the project. In cases where a query requires input from the UNISA supervisor, the
lecturer will inform the supervisor accordingly.

1.8 Industrial Supervisor

In the EIP3701 module an ECSA registered industrial supervisor was selected and the student is
advised to continue holding meetings with the industrial supervisor on a regular basis. In case where
the student decides to change their industrial supervisor, the “appointment of a workplace
supervisor” form in appendix A must be populated and forwarded to UNISA (on or before the 1st
August).

1.9 Conclusion

The industrial project that you (the student) have selected will prepare you for the workplace and by
now you should be familiar with the work environment. Students are encouraged to view this module
as opportunity to sharpen their abilities to learn independently while simultaneously networking with
other professionals in electrical engineering. As a practicing professional (Technologist) it is important
that student operate in an ethical manner, that is, adherence to all codes of ethics is a must. Codes of
ethics include but are not limited to ECSA’s, your employer’s and UNISA’s code of ethics. It therefore
advised that students familiarise themselves with these documents prior to commencing their project,
especially plagiarism.

For students to pass this model and finish the project on time, significant commitment and hard work
is required. Never ever take shortcuts in your work as a mistake may result in financial loss for your
employer and in some cases injury to the public. Remember this is a real life project!! The UNISA

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supervisor will not be following up on students to check their progress and missing a deadline will
automatically result in a “fail”.

At this point student should be clear with regards to what is expected in the EIP3702 module. The
feedback obtained from the lecturer and supervisors in the EIP3701 module should be incorporated
in the compilation of the deliverables for the EIP3702 module.

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ANNEXURE A

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Industrial Project 2 – University of South Africa

To the Prospective Workplace Supervisor:

All advanced diploma students are required to undertake an industrial project in order to evaluate their ability
to solve engineering problems, in industry setup, by applying theoretical knowledge. This would require
management or a project (of part thereof) from initiation to completion. Further, the aim is expose the student
to the workplace in general as well the wealth of knowledge and experience of practicing professionals in the
workplace. UNISA does not have facilities that would emulate real industrial setup or environment and it
therefore deemed best that students are place in a real engineering workplace.

A student needs to be appointed an industrial or workplace supervisor who will, amongst others, provide the
following functions:

 Provide assurance that the project is actually done by the student or the contribution of the student is
clearly defined (in cases where the student is part of a bigger project).
 Available to provide guidance and advice to the student.
 Be available for progress meetings the with student to check whether project is executed in a technical
sound manner.
 Ensure that the project work progress in line with the employer requirements and adds value to the
organisation.
 Be available to ensure that all project work is conducted in line with employer requirements (policies,
standards and procedures).

It is preferred that an industrial supervisor should be registered with ECSA as Professional Technologist or a
Professional Engineer. Alternatively, the supervisor should (as a minimum) be in possession of a B Tech, B Sc or
B Eng Engineering Degree. The module (Industrial project) further aims to assess the student ability to work as
a qualified Technologist.

UNISA views the support and involvement of a workplace supervisor as an important opportunity to learn from
and interact with a professional; and it further improves the probability of the student successfully completing
the project on time, budget and within scope.

I trust that as, supervisor, you will accept this opportunity of ploughing back into the Engineering fraternity by
mentoring a student.

Kindly complete the attached form for submission by the student to UNISA.

Regards,

Mrs Louise Visser

Administrator: Mining and Electrical Engineering department

University of South Africa (UNISA)

lvisser@unisa.ac.za

Tel: 011‐471 2854

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 Appointment of Workplace Supervisor
This form should be completed by the workplace supervisor.

I,_________________________ declare that I will act as a workplace supervisor by providing, amongst others,
the mentoring functions as expected by UNISA for the following student:

Student Name:________________________________________________________________

Student Number:______________________________________________________________

The title of the project to be completed as part of the student’s Industrial project is stated below:

__________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

The high level scope is stated below:

__________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

Reason for appointment of the new supervisor:

__________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

Supervisor and employer details:

Company Name: ___________________________________________________________

Supervisor full name: _______________________________________________________

Job Title: _______________________________________________________________

Academic Qualifications: ____________________________________________________

Professional registration: ____________________________________________________

Registration number: _______________________________________________________

Tel no: ___________________________________________________________________

Cell no: __________________________________________________________________

Email: ___________________________________________________________________

Signature: ________________________

Date: ____________________________

Official Stamp

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Bibliography

[1] Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA),“Qualification Standard for Bachelor of Engineering
Technology: NQF Level 7: E‐02‐PT”, Revision 3, March 2016.

[2] Howells. P,”Study guide: Industrial project 4”, Durban University of Technology, 2017.

[2] Hoschette. JA,”The Engineer’s career guide”, John Wiley and Sons Inc, 2010.

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NOTES

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 Study unit 2: Detail design

Learning outcomes

On completion of this study unit, you will be able to:

 Explain the definition of a detail design

 Formulate and produce the various deliverables that are part of a detail design process
 Apply engineering theory to create a design for the preferred solution
 Evaluate and interpret simulation results for the detail design
 Update the project schedule and risk register
 Develop/write/create a detailed design document for your project

Graduate attributes:

‐Attribute 2: Apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science and engineering sciences to

define and apply engineering procedures, processes, systems and methodologies to solve
broadly‐defined engineering problems.

‐ Attribute 3: Perform procedural and non‐procedural design of broadly defined components,

systems, works, products or processes to meet desired needs normally within applicable
standards, codes of practice and legislation.

‐ Attribute 4: Conduct investigations of broadly‐defined problems through locating, searching

and selecting relevant data from codes, data bases and literature, designing and conducting
experiments, analysing and interpreting results to provide valid conclusions.

‐ Attribute 5: Use appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering tools, including
information technology, prediction and modelling, for the solution of broadly‐defined
engineering problems, with an understanding of the limitations, restrictions, premises,
assumptions and constraints.

‐ Attribute 6: Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with engineering audiences
and the affected parties.

2.1 Introduction

Subsequent to the selection of a preferred solution, is the detail design phase. In this phase the
preferred solution is developed in detail, that is, the design team develops the solution to a detail such
that it can be implemented. The detail design phase can be defined a process of refining and expanding

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the preliminary phase of a system or component to the extent that the design is sufficiently complete
to be implemented [1].

The activities in the detail design phase may vary depending on the project selected; as part of
acquiring the skill of learning independently, the student is expected to develop a detail design
applicable to the project selected. The aim of this study unit is to briefly discuss the principles of a
detailed design as well as required format for the detail design report.

2.2 Detail design principles[2]

The detail design process poses certain challenges such as over designing which may have significant
cost implication or under designing which may lead to a poor quality solution. This section briefly
discusses certain principles that must be considered in the detail design phase.

Optimization: The search is for the best compromise between conflicting criteria. Note, in the concept
design phase there were a number of criteria that were utilised, in some cases it may be that not all
criteria will be satisfactory met as such a compromise will be necessary
Simplification: The aim of is not to complicate a solution unnecessarily, where possible rely on the
expertise and knowledge of specialist manufacturers by using proprietary components.
Analysis: Ensure that all components have appropriate factors of safety and are not overdesigned or
under designed (take note of graduate attribute 2, 3, 4 and 5).
Robustness: The designer should aim for a product which is fit for the purpose for the lifetime
intended.
Synthesis: A solution is often arrived at by a combination of techniques and elements.
Iteration: Progress towards the implementation phase is made iteratively as knowledge of the
important factors improves.

2.3 Detail design Activities [3]

The detail design phase prepares your project for construction or implementation. The activities in
this phase vary based on the project that is selected, however there are certain activities and
documents that are normally completed in this phase and they are listed below.

 Detailed engineering drawings suitable for construction or manufacturing, these are normally
generated using computer software.
 Verification of testing prototypes (as well as simulation results) is successfully completed and
verification data is generated.

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  Assembly drawings and assembly/commissioning instructions are completed with all bill of
materials documented.
 The detailed product or solution specifications are updated and finalised. Remember
preferred solution undergoes various modifications and changes prior to arriving at the final
version of the solution.
 A detailed cost estimate for the product is completed.

2.4 Detail Design report contents

The first progress report for this module is the detail design report for your industrial project. A detail
design report or package to tends to be large in size (page numbers) due the detail analysis that is
conducted. For the purposes of this module the student is required to summarise and compress the
design information into 30 pages (excluding the appendices section).This section discusses the
required contents for the detail design report.

 Title page
 Declaration of own work
 Table of contents
 Summary
 Background theory and Literature Review
 Preferred solution system overview
 Design process
 Modelling and test procedures/methods
 Results
 Analysis of results
 Discussion
 Possible implementation challenges
 Deliverable
 Project schedule
 Project risk register
 Bibliography
 Appendices

2.4.1 Requirement contents

Title page

The title page must contain the project title, student name, student number, supervisor name, the
qualification, the module number and date of report. Example of the title page is shown in figure 2.1

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 Project title
By

Student name
Student number
Industrial Supervisor name

DETAIL DESIGN REPORT

DEPARTMENT OF MINING AND ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA

Industrial Project 2 (EIP3702)

Xx August 20xx

Figure 2.1 Title page

Declaration of own work

On this section, students are expected to declare that the report is solely their own work therefore
following is to be inserted and signed on a separate page:

DECLARATION OF OWN WORK

I declare that this report is my own work. It is being submitted as a requirement for the Industrial
Project module in the Department of Electrical and Mining Engineering at UNISA. It has not been
submitted before for any degree, diploma or other examination at any other tertiary educational
institution.

Signature: __________________________ by ____________________________________

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at___________________________ on this ___________day of ____________20_____

Table of contents

The contents as in mentioned above should be included as a minimum; the student can add more
sections as per their employer’s requirements. The content must have a page reference.

Summary

On this section briefly state the engineering problem as well the solution that was selected to
address the problem

Background and Literature review

 Project background
The project background should be discussed in this section. Information relating to the project
environment and context as well as the value‐add of the project should be stated.
 Literature review
On this section, discuss the updated research that was conducted subsequent to the selection of the
preferred option (as part of the detail design phase).
 Relevant modules
In the industrial project that you select, you should use theoretical knowledge obtained in one more
modules in your national diploma/advanced diploma. In this section you need to list those modules.

Preferred solution system overview

In this section briefly discuss the preferred solution (you may also provide system block diagram,
models, high level sketches or network diagram).

Design process

In this section, you are to provide a flow diagram of the process followed in the detail design phase.
Also state the deliverable or outcome of each step in the process. Preferably provide your
employer’s process according to their design policy and approval process.

Modelling and test procedure/methods

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In this section, students are to discuss the modelling and testing procedures that were utilised to
ensure that the design will function as intended as per specifications (in line with the relevant
engineering standards).

Results

The results are to be inserted in this section of your report.

Analysis of results

The results are to be discussed in this section; your discussion needs to elaborate on how well the
design meets the desired specifications.

Discussion

In this section you can discuss as a minimum the following:

 Overall opinion on how well the design addresses the engineering problem taking into
account your results in the previous sections.
 Compromises that were made in the design phase.
 Design challenges as well as improvements and changes that were made on the original
preferred solution.
 If your design differs from the company preferred solution, state the benefits of your design.

Possible implementation challenges

In this section the possible challenges that may be faced in the subsequent phases of the project
needs to be stated as well.

Deliverables
In this section state the deliverable of the design phase of the project (e.g. detail design document,
simulation results, and drawings packages).

Project Cost
The high‐level updated budget or cost estimate of the project is to be presented here, as well as the
funding process.

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Risk register
An updated risk register as discussed in study unit 3(in the EIP3701 module) is to be presented

Bibliography

The bibliography list must be inserted in this section as per the prescribed format for references.

Appendices

All additional supporting material that is important for this report must be included here. Each one
to be given a heading, appendix number, and placed in the index list

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2.5 Conclusion

The detail design phase transforms a concept into an implementable solution, the deliverables of the
detail design phase to enable implementation or construction of a solution. The content of the detail
design report was presented in this study unit and the student is expected to align with the above
content as a minimum requirement. Further, the design process that the student followed needs to
be presented and discussed in the report as well as the various deliverables of each step. The detail
design phase tends to generate a significant amount of information and the student needs to
summarise the information and present as per the report format in this study unit. This implies that
the detail design report presented is a summarised version of the actual report delivered at your
workplace.

The detail design should demonstrate that you achieved competence in graduate attributes stated in
this study unit. The student should now be able to compile a detail design report.

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2.6 Study unit review questions
1) What is a detail design (explain in your words)?
2) Provide a brief summary of your design.
3) Provide a background and literature review for the design phase.
4) Provide a detail design process followed in your project.
5) State and discuss the modelling and tests methods used.
6) Present all results from the above point.
7) Analyse and discuss your result.
8) Discuss your design taking into account the following:
a) Overall opinion on how well the design addresses the engineering problem taking into
account your results in the previous sections.
b) Compromises that were made in the design phase.
c) Design challenges as well as improvements and changes that were made on the original
preferred solution.
d) Any other aspect you see relevant.
9) Discuss the possible or foreseeable challenges In the subsequent phases.
10) Update the project schedule and highlight any major changes.
11) Update the risk register and highlight any major changes.

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Bibliography

[1] Vida KP., “Chapter 5: Principles of detailed design” The project management handbook: a guide to
capital improvements”., Government Institute, 2012

[2] Hurst K.S., “Engineering design principles.”, First edition, Elsevier, 1999.

[3] Dieter G.E. Schmidt L.C, “Engineering design.”, Fourth edition, McGraw Hill, 2009.

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NOTES

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 Study unit 3: Modelling and Simulation

Learning outcomes

On completion of this study unit, you will be able to:

 Explain the concept of modelling and simulation.

 Explain the importance of modelling and simulation.
 Apply modelling and simulation concept in your project.
 Interpret, adapt and apply the modelling process to a project.
 Explain and apply the concept of verification and validation.

Graduate attributes:

‐Attribute 2: Apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science and engineering sciences to

define and apply engineering procedures, processes, systems and methodologies to solve
broadly‐defined engineering problems.

‐ Attribute 3: Perform procedural and non‐procedural design of broadly defined components,

systems, works, products or processes to meet desired needs normally within applicable
standards, codes of practice and legislation.

‐ Attribute 4: Conduct investigations of broadly‐defined problems through locating, searching

and selecting relevant data from codes, data bases and literature, designing and conducting
experiments, analysing and interpreting results to provide valid conclusions.

‐ Attribute 5: Use appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering tools, including
information technology, prediction and modelling, for the solution of broadly‐defined
engineering problems, with an understanding of the limitations, restrictions, premises,
assumptions and constraints.

3.1 Introduction

Engineering problems tend to be complex in nature and there is always a need to check and verify
whether a selected solution will function as intended. Normally an idea or solution is modelled and
simulations are conducted to ensure that the idea will meet the required specification. For example,
a model of power line may be developed and thereafter simulations may be run on the model to
ensure that it will (electrically) operate as per specification. An important aspect of a model is that it
closely mimics the characteristics of the system or product that is being designed or developed;

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otherwise the simulation results will be incorrect and will result in a solution that may not function as
intended once implemented.

The advancements in computer technology have forced most industries to rely on computer
generated models to conduct simulations. Therefore in your workplace there will definitely be a need
to learn how to use a simulation package in order to successfully complete your project. Developing a
model does not nullify the need for you to understand the dynamic behaviour of the system you are
developing. You need to be able to know the different variables that are applicable and important to
your system. Most importantly, you need to be able to interpret the result from a simulation exercise.

This study unit discusses the basic concepts relating to modelling and simulation in industrial projects.
A distinction is made between a model and a simulation; further the process or steps that are involved
in the simulation process are discussed.

3.2 What is modelling and simulation

Modelling is the process that creates an object (a model) which is eventually used for experimentation
purposes. The experimentation activity on the model is referred to as the simulation activity [1]. A
model typically is a representation or abstraction of an object (it is not the actual object). Computer
models are common in almost all fields of engineering, for example a model of power system is
modelled on a software program and engineers conduct various simulations on the model (such as
fault studies). The model in the above example is not the actual electrical network rather a
representation of the network. A model’s behaviour needs to be indistinguishable to that of the actual
object or product. A fault current in a certain point in model should clearly mimic the actual fault
current that would flow in the actual power system. Therefore, it is important to apply your theoretical
knowledge when developing or utilising an existing model in order to ensure that your model delivers
the correct results. Remember an incorrect model implies the simulation result will be incorrect which
will lead to a product that does not meet requirements on implementation. Know the limits of your
model e.g. transformer saturation or thermal capacity of the components can influence your results.

3.3 What is role of modelling and simulation(M&S)

Concepts and solutions always commence as ideas; these ideas need to be tested to ensure that they
will meet the desired specification. Thus modelling and simulation play an important role in solving
engineering problems. Some of the areas M&S finds application in are listed below:
 Forecasting

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  Evaluations of alternative concepts or ideas
 Engineering design
 Performance evaluation
 Risk and safety assessment
 Sensitivity analysis
 Power system analysis
 Prototyping
The above list shows that modelling will depend on the objective of the selected project. For example,
in the concept selection phase M&S will assist in choosing the best solution. And in the detail design
stage it helps to ensure that the design operates within the required specifications.

3.4 Modelling and simulation process

This section discusses a generic process of M&S process. It has to be noted though that the process
presented here is specific to M&S projects however, the principles can be applied to any project that
involves simulations. This includes cases where a student has to build a model or where a model
already exists. The steps are listed below and further reading is advised for more information:

 Step 1: Problem description ‐ The problem has to be formulated in manner that will enable a
modelling and simulation exercise to be undertaken. In your project as you conduct your
research and define the problem ensure that it is a manner that can enable modelling and
simulation.
 Step 2: Project goals – The aim of your project is to solve as specific problem, hence the
solution that you develop must meet certain goals for the project to be a success. These goals
are normally stated in terms of specifications that must be met during the experimentation
phase. These play an important role in the development process of a model.
 Step 3: The concept model – The previous 2 steps are not precisely detailed, thus this steps
aims to refine and improve the completeness of the information generated in the previous 2
steps. This step consolidates all relevant structural and behavioural features of the proposed
solution in format that is more complete.
 Step 4: The simulation model – The simulation model is a conceptual model that has been
transformed into a format that can be utilised in a simulation program environment.
 Step 5: The simulation program – This is the simulation software in which experimentation on
the model will be executed.
 Step 6: The operational phases – This mainly refers to the experimentation phase or the
simulation phase.

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3.5 Verification and Validation

Verification and validation refers to the activity of ensuring that the simulation result that will be
obtained for the model can relied on (credible). Verification focuses on ensuring that the desired
features exist in the model. Validation focuses checking whether these features adequately emulate
required model behaviour. The student must ensure that both verification and validation are done on
the simulation models. This is the phase where the student learns the most and gain insight why things
were wrong. A brief summary of lessons learned to be presented.

3.6 Presentation/interpretation of results

The outcomes of a simulation are results which determine how well the project has met the project
goal or how well the solution addressed the original problem. You need to present the simulation to
a reader in a manner that can be easily comprehended. You may utilise formulas, graphs (with clearly
defined axis and units), table or sketches etc. ensure that the visual representation is adequately
labelled. You need spend a significant portion of your report presenting the results regarding every
aspect of the engineering problem. Remember, the detail design mainly be based on the outcome of
the M&S process.

Secondly, you need to adequately interpret the results. For example, let’s say you present your result
in a colour coded sketch the colour codes depict various scenarios, the colour code must be explain
and the benefit of simulating different scenarios must be understood by the reader. Note: you will be
heavily penalised if you do not interpret your simulation results.

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3.7 Conclusion

You are expected to demonstrate that you have conducted simulations as part of your project. In some
cases you may have to develop models and other cases the models may already exist, you just have
to customise the model to suite your project needs. The modelling process must deliver a model that
properly depicts the behaviour of the actual object, so that the simulation result are correct. In your
various reports, the simulation results should be interpreted or explained; do not just copy and paste
results and expect the reader to understand. You must explain the results and most importantly your
explanation must clarify which aspect of your projects the simulation results are addressing.

The M&S process provides steps that must be followed in a modelling and simulation project;
however, the process can be utilised in any project where simulations will be conducted as an activity.
Further, most simulations are done in software and you may encounter simulations software that you
are not familiar with, therefore you need to independently learn how the software functions or attend
training thereof. Simulation software is not a substitute for theoretical understating; when conducting
simulations, you need to fully have the theoretical knowledge of how the system is expected to
behave. For example, in power system when you are conducting fault current simulations, you need
to know that a reduction in impedance increases the fault current. In other words you need to
understand the relationships and behaviour of the various parameters of your project. Lastly, the
verification and validation process should be completed as part for your quality assurance on the
modelling and simulation process so as to ensure that the simulation results are correct.

You should now be able to conduct the modelling and simulation activity on your project; and the
simulation results thereof should be correct and usable in the respective phases of your project.

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3.8 Study unit review questions
1) What is a model?
2) In your selected project, what was the purpose of modelling and simulation?
3) Did the behaviour of the model mimic the behaviour desired product? Explain your answer.
4) Name and explain the steps involved in the modelling and simulation process.
5) Define the term “verification” in relation to Modelling and simulation.
6) How was verification done on your M&S activity of you project?
7) Define the term “validation” in relation to Modelling and simulation.
8) How was verification done on your Modelling and simulation activity of your project? Also, focus
on the lessons learnt.
9) In your various reports did you explain your simulation results?
10) List the tools that were used in your simulations.

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Bibliography

[1] Birta G.L. Gilbert A., “Modelling and Simulation: Exploring dynamic system behaviour.”, Second
edition, Springer, 2013.

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NOTES

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 Study unit 4: Final Project Report

Learning outcomes

On completion of this study unit, you will be able to:

 Compile a final report for your industrial project.

 Revise and proofread the various drafts of the report.

Graduate attributes:

‐ Attribute 2: Apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science and engineering sciences to

define and apply engineering procedures, processes, systems and methodologies to solve
broadly‐defined engineering problems.

‐ Attribute 3: Perform procedural and non‐procedural design of broadly defined components,

systems, works, products or processes to meet desired needs normally within applicable
standards, codes of practice and legislation.

‐ Attribute 4: Conduct investigations of broadly‐defined problems through locating, searching

and selecting relevant data from codes, data bases and literature, designing and conducting
experiments, analysing and interpreting results to provide valid conclusions.

‐ Attribute 6: Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with engineering audiences
and the affected parties.

‐ Attribute 6: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of engineering activity

on the society, economy, industrial and physical environment, and address issues by analysis and
evaluation.

4.1 Introduction

The final project report is the main deliverable for this module; you will have to demonstrate your
ability to apply theoretical knowledge to solve engineering problems. The report demonstrates your
ability to identify a problem, conduct necessary research and develop an adequate solution. A
significant amount of information was generated through the life cycle of your project and you need
know how to organise and present it in a report format. The various progress reports that been
compiled for your project need to utilised to compile your project report. The feedback (on your
progress reports) obtained from your industrial supervisor and UNISA supervisor should be considered
in the compilation process of your report. This is a scientific report and the student should read study
unit 6 for more information.

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Your final report is a professional document; therefore there should be no grammar and spelling
errors. The format and layout of your report needs to be consistent, for example the headings of all
chapters needs to be have similar formatting. This implies that you need to revise and proofread your
document sufficiently. In addition, to the student proof reading the report for technical accuracy of
the content, the final draft needs forwarded to a professional proof‐reader. Remember, this is the
final record of your project that will be archived by UNISA; therefore it needs to professional and error
free. The format of the report is to be the same as that of the example provided in this study guide,
be in portrait, A4 format. If material from another source is utilised it must be acknowledged. The
report must also be submitted in electronic format to as the report may be checked for plagiarism by
UNISA. Students are encouraged to utilise free checker on the internet.

This study unit provides a detailed layout and format for the final project report. Further, the study
unit provides the minimum required content for each section of the report and some advice on
revision and proof reading strategies for a report. Lastly, before you submit the final report, you will
submit progress reports as indicated in your tutorial letter and on these reports, you will obtain
feedback from your UNISA supervisor that must be incorporated in your final report.

4.2 Contents of Final report

The project report should contain the following:

 Title page
 Declaration of own work
 Summary
 Acknowledgement
 Table of contents with page reference
 List of Abbreviations
 List of Figures
 List of Tables
 Project Background and problem statement (Chapter 1)
 Literature survey (chapter 2)
 Concept selection (chapter 3)
 Detail design( Chapter 4)
 Solution implementation (Chapter 5)
 Ethics and sustainability(Chapter 6)

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  Discussion and recommendations(Chapter 7)
 Bibliography
 Appendices
The project report must be written in English.

4.3 Detailed requirements

4.3.1 Title page

The title page should contain:
 the project title
 student full name
 student number
 supervisor name
 module title
 qualification
 department
 subject
 date
See the format below

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 Project title

By

Anton Smith

Student number: 1234567

submitted in partial fulfilment of the

requirements for the diploma

Advanced Diploma: Electrical Engineering

in the

FACULTY OF MINING AND ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA

Subject: Industrial Project 2 (EIP3702)

November 20xx

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4.3.2 Declaration of own work

The student needs to insert and sign the following declaration on the second page of the report.
Note: the declaration must be inserted on a separate page. An unsigned declaration is not a
declaration.

DECLARATION OF OWN WORK

1. I declare that this project report is my own, unaided work. It is being submitted for the
Advanced diploma in Electrical Engineering in the Department of Mining and Electrical
Engineering at the University of South Africa.
2. I have not used a project that was previously produced by another person to hand in as my
own. It has not been submitted before for any degree, diploma or other examination at any
other tertiary educational institution
3. In cases where other people’s work has been used (i.e. from the internet or any other
source), this has been adequately referenced in the report.

Signature: __________________________ by ____________________________________

at___________________________ on this ___________day of ____________20_____

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4.3.3 Summary
The summary for the report must be on a separate page. The page must contain the following:
 Project title
 Student name
 Industrial supervisor name
 Employer name
 Key words
 Abstract or summary: The summary must provide a brief concise overview of your project. It
provides a snapshot of your whole project. The length must be limited to one A4 page. The
reader needs to able to gain a high level understanding of your whole project from reading
your executive summary without having to read the whole document. The student must strike
a balance between providing too little information and providing too much detail. The
executive summary must provide, as a minimum, the following information in a summarised
manner:
o Engineering problem statement.
o Main theory (from research/literature survey) utilised to address problem.
o Preferred concept (discuss the preferred solution).
o The results (discuss how well the selected concept addresses the engineering
problem).
o Discuss the main challenges and how they were addressed.
o Discuss the value add or the benefits (that your employer derived from your
completed project).
An example is shown below:

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 Summary

Project title…
By
Student full name
Industrial supervisor: xxxx
ECSA registration number: xxxx
Employer name: xxxxx

Abstract
Keywords: xxxx

The summary of your project must be inserted here.

4.3.4 Acknowledgments
In this section, the student thanks all individuals who provided assistance in the project. Keep it short
and simple.

4.3.5 Table of contents

In this section, a list of numbered chapters, headings and sub‐headings and the related page numbers
are inserted. It assists the reader in easily locating the various sections or topics of the report. An
example (except) of a table of content is shown in the following page.

Note: The student must learn how to generate a table of content list that automatically adjusts with
page changes.

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 Table of Contents

Declaration of own work ii

Summary iii
Acknowledgements iv
List of abbreviations v
List of Symbols vi
List of Figures vii
CHAPTER 1: Project Background and problem statement 1
1.1 Introduction 1
1.2 Project background 3
1.3 Problem statement 3
1.4 Project objectives 4
1.5 Relevant theory 4
Bibliography 8
APPENDIX A: Detailed drawings 45
APPENDIX B: Standards 50

4.3.6 List of abbreviations

In this section, a list of abbreviations is inserted. It assists a reader who is not familiar with certain
acronyms which may be unique to your employer or your chosen field.

List of Abbreviations
ECSA Engineering Council of South Africa
kV kilo volt
kA kilo ampere
UNISA University of South Africa
FM Frequency Modulation

4.3.6 List of Figures

In this section, a list of figures and the related page numbers are inserted. It assists the reader in easily
locating the figures within the report. Further, if there are any symbols used in the figure, a legend
should be included to explain the symbols. An example is shown below:

List of Figures
Figure 1.1 Network diagrams 10
Figure 1.2 Cost benefit analysis 13
Figure 2.1 Project schedule 20
Figure 2.2 Project risk register 25

4.3.7 List of Tables

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In this section, a list of tables and the related page numbers are inserted. It assists the reader in easily
locating the relevant tables.

List of Tables
Table 1.1 List of Material 10
Table 1.2 Experiment data 13
Table 2.1 Trip time versus fault current 20
Table 2.2 Decision matrix 25

4.3.8 Introduction (Chapter 1)

In this section, the following is to be included as a minimum.

 An introduction of your project as well the environment and the discipline specific field
(telecommunication, power system etc.) in which project will be executed.
 Project background: discuss the background of the engineering problem that you were
addressing with your project.
 Problem statement: State the engineering problem that you are addressing.
Problem definition: Expand on how a broadly defined engineering problem was adequately
defined.
 Elaborate on the benefit or value add of your project for your employer.
 State which modules in your national diploma that were utilised as a basis for your project.
 An updated Project schedule.
 An updated risk register (the risk register must include new risks that were identified in the
EIP3702 module as well the relevant mitigation actions. You may want to refresh your memory
by refer to study unit 3 in the EIP3701 study guide).

4.3.9 Literature review (Chapter 2)

The skill of conducting research to address an engineering problem is important in engineering

problem solving. In this section, the student needs demonstrate that adequate and relevant research
was conducted. The literature review was compiled in study unit 5 in the EIP3701 module; in this
section the updated literature review is to be inserted. Note: remember to follow the guidelines as
discussed in in the EIP3701 module.

4.3.10 Concept Design (Chapter 3)

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In this section, use the contents of the concept design report to compile this section of the project
report. As a minimum, the following aspects must be included in this chapter:
 Concept generation
 Concept selection process
 Decision making matrix (include the associated results)
 Preferred concept
 Conclusion

4.3.11 Detail Design (Chapter 4)

In this section, use the contents of detail design report to populate this section of the project report.
As a minimum, the following aspects must be included in this chapter:
 Preferred solution system overview: Discuss in detail the preferred solution (you may also
provide system block diagram, models, high level sketches or network diagram etc.).
 Design process: You are to provide a flow diagram of the process followed in the detail design
phase. Also state the deliverable or outcome of each step in the process. Preferably provide
your employer’s process and relevant approvals obtained.
 Modelling and test procedures/methods: discuss the modelling and testing procedures that
were utilised to ensure that the design will function as intended as per specification.
 Results: The results (tabulated or graphic format) are discussed.
 Analysis of result: The results need to elaborate on how well the design meets the design
specifications.
 Conclusion.

4.3.12 Solution implementation (Chapter 5)

In this section, the implementation of the detail design is discussed in this section. As a minimum, the
following aspects are to be included:
 An introduction: Provide a discussion of the implementation environment.
 Implementation process: Provide a detail discussion on the process followed in the
implementation phase of the solution.
 Implementation procedures: Discuss any implementation procedures (and sketches where
applicable) that were developed for your solution.
 Risk and Safety issues addressed.

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  Problems encountered: Discuss any problems that were encountered as well as how these
were addressed.

4.3.13 Ethics and sustainability (Chapter 6)

In this section, use the contents of the ethics and sustainability report (see Study Unit 5) to populate
this section of the project report. As a minimum, the following aspects are to be included:
Ethics
 Explain in your own words why it is important for engineering professional to be ethical?
 Do you think you are ethical in your project? Explain your answer.
 Explain how you applied your technical knowledge in the interest of your public.
 Explain how you applied your technical knowledge in the interest of the environment.
 Elaborate on how you executed your project with integrity.
 Elaborate on how you complied with your employer’s code of conduct.
Sustainability
 In your own words defines what sustainability is and briefly discuss how it was incorporated
into your project.
 Discuss in detail how sustainability was incorporated in your project.
 Name the tool that was used to assess the sustainability of your project.
 Discuss how your employer has embraced sustainability in their engineering design process.
 Discuss why is important to incorporate sustainability in your project.
 Provide concluding remarks on how well your project meets the sustainability requirements
Safety aspects
 Provide and in‐depth discussion relating to the safety aspects of your solution
Note: You have to decide on the headings for this section of the report

Students are encouraged to discuss on the discussion forum of this module to discuss ethics and
sustainable aspects of typical engineering projects as well as what lessons can be learned from these
projects.

4.3.14 Conclusion and Recommendations (Chapter 7)

In this section, the student must provide an overall discussion on the project as well
recommendations for future improvements. As a minimum, the following aspects are to be included:
 Project highlights.
 Project challenges: discuss the overall challenges that you faced in any phase of your project.
Also state how you devised solutions to address the challenges.

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  Final project costs and reasons for overruns on cost and time.
 Lessons learnt.
 Submit pictorial evidence of your active involvement in the project and the successful
implementation of your project (use the appendix for this).
 Company recognition for the work done (where applicable).
 Conclusion: Provide a discussion regarding whether the project successfully addressed the
engineering problem statement.
 Recommendations: State any ideas or ways in which a similar project can be executed in a
more efficient manner. State any suggested improvement in your employer’s processes.

4.3.15 Bibliography

In this section, the list of all sources used in the report is inserted at the end of each chapter.

4.3.16 Appendices

The appendices are important as it prevents the insertion of too much information that may affect the
logical flow of the main report. Your project will generate huge amounts of information such as detail
drawings, flow diagram, software codes etc.; therefore, the student needs to ensure that the
information in the main report is detailed, yet not cluttered. The appendices section must be used to
insert information that will assist the reader in better understanding the content of the main report.
Each appendix must be named, numbered and included in the list of contents.

4.4 Report format

4.3.1 Page numbering

Page numbers must be included. These must appear at the bottom right part of the page. Headers
must appear at the top of the page and footers at the bottom of the page. The chapter title must
appear “centred” at the beginning of each chapter.
Note that separate pages containing the following topics:
i. Title page
ii. Declaration of own work
iii. Summary
iv. Acknowledgements
v. Table of contents
vi. List of Abbreviations, List of Figures, List of Tables

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are normally numbered using roman numerals (i, ii, iii, etc.).
In the section where the main body of the report commences, the page number is reset to 1, and
numbering from this point on uses Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, etc.).

4.3.2. Length
There is no correct length for a report as the student projects vary in size and contents. However, to
ensure consistency with regards to report lengths, table 4.1 show the maximum length in pages of
the various sections in the main body of the report
Section Maximum length in pages (Total: 130)
Project background and problem statement 15
(Chapter 1)
Literature survey (Chapter 2) 20
Concept selection (Chapter 3) 20
Detail design( Chapter 4) 40
Solution implementation (Chapter 5) 15
Ethics and sustainability(Chapter 6) 10
Discussion and recommendations (Chapter 7) 10
Table 4.1: Maximum section lengths

4.3.3. Figures, tables and equations

Figures and tables
 Figures should be clear and readable.
 The figures and tables should be placed immediately after they are referred to in text and
should be cantered.
 Figures and table should be numbered to ensure that they are easily referred to in text.
 Figures should be embedded on the document, that is there should no links to other
documents.
 Figures/tables numbers should appear centred below the figure/table with a caption.
 Figures and table should be numbered as they appear using a two‐digit numbering system, for
example figure 3.1, means the first figure in chapter 3.
 If your figure is in colour, ensure that the figure is readable in cases where a reader prints the
document in black and white. Note: the printed copies may be printed in black and white;
hence the figure should readable if printed in black and white.
 The font size should be at 10 and must be bold. Note: be consistent on all figures and tables

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Equations
The variables used in equations must be as defined in the abbreviation list and annotated in the
diagrams and tables. Describe what you want to achieve with the equation.
Equations must be numbered. The equation number must appear next to the equation in
parentheses without any description, as shown below:
V = IR (1)
Describe the variables: Where V is the potential of the battery in volt, I is the current in ampere
an R is the resistance in ohm.
Describe the input values: with‐
I=5A
R = 10 Ω
Result: Then the voltage of the battery is 50 V.
All end results must contain a unit. All variables must be declared.

4.3.4. Footnotes
Footnotes may be used; however the student must keep their use to a minimum. The footnote should
be numbered in their order of appearance in your report

4.3.5. Margins
A typical margin size on A4 paper is 25mm for all four margins (top, bottom, right and left). Avoid
margins a lot narrower than this (causes text to seem very cramped) or a lot wider than this (causes
text to look ‘lost in space’).

4.3.6. Fonts
The font type for the report should be “Aerial”; the font sizes are shown below:
 Chapter title – 14(bold)
 Headings – 12 (bold)
 Body text – 10
 Line spacing ‐ 1.5
Note: Refer to Study unit 6 for additional information

4.5 Revision and proof reading [2]

Revision of your draft report

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The purpose revising your report is to “improve the technical and literacy aspects of the first and
subsequent drafts of our report which involves deleting, altering, adding material and correction
errors”. Your report will probably have a number of versions as you draft and consult various
professionals within your organisation. Prior to revising your document the following tips are
advised:
 Name each report with a different version number as to keep track between the various
revisions and place the version number in the heading
 Print the report and check for errors. You can use the spell check and grammar check
function in MS Word.
 When you read a document a number of times you tend to become too familiar and end up
not identifying errors on your report. Therefore, it is advisable that you do not read your
report for a while before your start revising it.

The revision process tends to follow the following four stages:

Stage 1: Structure and content only – In this stage the student should focus on correcting the structure
of the report as well as ensuring the desired sections are in the report. Further, the logical order of
the sections is corrected.

Stage 2: Style, grammar, punctuation and equations – The next step is to look at the report in more
detail by reviewing the style, grammar punctuation and equations.

Stage 3: Formatting – this may be combined with stage 2; your formatting needs to be consistent.
For example the headings must have larger fonts than the rest of the texts (in a section) and
consistency must be maintained throughout the report.

Stage 4: Document integrity – You must check the document integrity. The changes you make as you
carry stages 1 to 3 may result in certain mismatches amongst the different parts of the report such
figures numbers not correlating with the figure numbering in the text.

Proof reading your report

This forms part of the final phase of your document before submission, though it may appear boring
but it is necessary. The purpose of proof reading your final draft report is to “get rid of errors in your
final draft that may have occurred due typing or when the typed manuscript returns from a
professional proof reader or immediately prior to publication.” Proof reading involves thorough
reading of the final draft and paying attention to detail as you read. This process tends to identify

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minor errors in your report such as alignment and typos etc. Read through chapter 16 of reference [2]
for more information regarding revising and proof reading your project report.

Lastly, after you proof read the final draft, it is recommended that you utilise the services of a
professional proof reader.

Plagiarism

Academic institutions use programs to check for plagiarism and for this purpose an electronic copy of
your final report needs to be submitted for copy evaluation. (See 4.1)

Virus Protection

Students work in different environments and their computers may be infected with viruses. Do ensure
that all documents copied on CDs, placed on memory sticks or submitted on MyUnisa must be checked
for viruses.

4.6 Final report binding

The final report should be bound in a professional manner (e.g. ring bound) before submitting it to
UNISA for final evaluation (marking). Subsequent to the final evaluation there may be improvements
that are recommended; these should be included in the final submission of the report (for filing at the
departmental library). Details regarding the number and format of copies will communicated in the
tutorial letter for this module.

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4.7 Conclusion

The project report is the final deliverable for your industrial project module, therefore is has to be of
the highest professional standard. It serves as evidence that the student has acquired experience in
the tackling an industrial project. The report has to provide sufficient detail to ensure the reader fully
understands the project contents as well as the student’s contribution therein. Although in some cases
your project may be a team effort, your individual contribution must be clearly stated. In short, the
report must mainly focus on the student’s contribution. Note: Do not present other people’s work as
your own.

This is a technical report and is written for an academic institution; hence technical language is to be
used and the student must use graphs, equations, flow diagrams, simulation result etc., to
demonstrate adequacy of the preferred solution in solving the engineering problem. The report must
show the student’s ability to execute the following process: define broadly‐defined engineering
problem, conduct research, develop and implement a solution. The ability to communicate your
engineering work is an important attribute; hence as an engineering practitioner you need to be able
to adequately communicate the above process (orally and in writing). Take note of the page limitation
for each section.

The report will form part of the documentation that will be used to prepare for the student’s final
project presentation. Use the appendices section wisely to add supporting information that will
provide clarity to the reader. Lastly, consult the textbooks in the reference section of this study unit
for further reading relating to the writing, revising and proof reading of your project report.

The student should now be able to compile a professional project report.

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4.8 Study unit review questions
1) What is the purpose of the final project report?
2) List the minimum required chapters in your project report.
3) Compile the first draft project report.
4) Did you consolidate the feedback from your progress report in your draft report?
5) Did you discuss your report with your workplace and UNISA supervisors?
6) What is the purpose of revising a report?
7) What are the stages of revising a project report?
8) Did you follow the above steps?
9) What is the purpose of proof reading a report?
10) Did you proof read your draft report
11) Did you submit your report to a professional proof reader?

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Bibliography

[1] Swart PH., “Industrial project study guide:IPR400EE”., UNISA,1998.

[2] Silyn‐Roberts H., “Writing for science and Engineering: Papers, presentations and reports.”.,
Butterworth‐Heinemann, 2000.

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NOTES

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 Study unit 5: Ethics and Sustainability

Learning outcomes

On completion of this study unit, you will be able to:

 Define the concept of ethics.

 Explain the various categories of ethics.
 Apply ethical principles in the real work environment.
 Explain engineering codes of conduct.
 Compile an ethics report for an industrial project.
 Explain the concepts of sustainability.
 Explain how sustainability can be incorporated in an industrial project.
 Compile a sustainability report for your project.

Graduate attributes:

‐ Attribute 6: Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with engineering audiences
and the affected parties.

‐ Attribute 9: Engage in independent and life‐long learning through well‐developed learning

skills.

‐ Attribute 10: Comprehend and apply ethical principles and commit to professional ethics,
responsibilities and norms of engineering technology practice.

5.1 Introduction

Engineering is the “practice of science, engineering science and technology concerned with the
solution of problems of economic importance and those essential to the progress of society” [1]. This
implies that the end‐product of an engineering activity will be utilised by society and it will interact
with the environment. In most cases, the users are not engineering professionals, as such; the
engineering practitioner needs to ensure that the product does not pose any safety threat to the user.
Remember, the user is not involved in the engineering design process of the product, so it is possible
that as an effort to cut costs, the engineering professional may utilise substandard material. This may
lead to early product failure which may pose a safety threat to society. Therefore as an engineering
professional you will be expected to consider the well‐being of the user of your product.

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For example, let’s say you are designing a product and you realise that your solution will cause harm
to the public as well as the environment in the long term and changing the design will cost your
company a huge amount of money and may delay the delivery date, what would you do? Or your
employer requests you omit certain important tests on a product due to lack of resources in your
company and he promises you a permanent position in the company if your comply with his/her
request, what would you do?

The above scenarios show that as an engineering professional, you need to display certain ethical
behaviour in executing engineering work. This study unit will firstly (in part 1) discuss the concept of
ethics and some of the engineering code of conduct intended to define what ethical behaviour is for
the engineering profession will be briefly discussed. Secondly (in part 2), the study unit discusses the
concept of sustainability within the context of engineering.

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Part 1: Ethics

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5.2 What is ethics

Ethics focus on the moral aspect of human behaviour; it attempts to differentiate between right and
wrong behaviour. Ethics can be defined as “the discipline dealing with what is good and with moral or
duty or obligation” or “a set of moral principles and values” or “a theory or system of moral values or
principles of conduct governing an individual or a group” [2].Engineering work is important for
development of society however it carries with it the risks of health, safety, environmental and
sustainability that must be managed [1].This means there is great responsibility that society places on
engineering professionals; as you design and develop solutions there has to be certain ethical
standards that you must comply with.

In engineering, codes of conduct are normally developed to regulate the behaviour of the engineering
professional executing engineering work. In industry, the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA)
has developed a code of conduct (to be discussed later in section 5.5) for engineering practitioners in
the country. The industrial project is intended to be executed in the work place and as the student
you will be expected to abide by the engineering code of conduct (with the guidance of your
supervisor). Further, you need to familiarise yourself with your employer’s code of conduct.

The industrial project will need to be executed within the boundaries all applicable codes of conduct,
that is, you are expected to display the “right” behaviour in your project. In summary, Ethics or ethical
behaviour defines right and wrong behaviour.

5.3 Theory of Ethics

Ethical theories can be divided into 3 categories or general areas, namely meta‐ethics, normative
ethics and applied ethics. Normative ethics refers to the development of standards that define what
is right and wrong behaviour. Meta ethics studies the origins of ethical standards. Applied ethics
focuses on standards in relation to specific issues or areas [3]. Figure 5.1 shows the above categories.
This study unit only provides a high level overview on ethics theories and the student can read
additional material for a better understanding of the theory of ethics.

Figure 5.1: Ethics theories [3]

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Normative ethics deals with the development of standards that define right and wrong; in engineering,
these standards are in the form of codes of conduct. You are not expected to develop any ethical
standards in your project, you are only required to identify all the applicable ethical standards and
comply.

5.4 Why must you be ethical?

Engineering professionals develop solutions and products that are eventually used by society; implying
that you are entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring the products comply with the elements of
sustainability (refer to section 5.9).Some to the reasons as why professional must be professional are
stated below:
 Ethical behaviour will ensure guarantee the health and safety of the public both in the long
term and short term.
 Figure 5.2 in section 5.10 shows that the engineer is the centre and an importance role player
in the development of sustainable designs; this shows that ethical behaviour will ensure that
all elements are sustainability are incorporated in all engineering designs. Therefore the
overall impact of ethical engineering professional is sustainable development (refer to section
5.8 for a definition of sustainable development).
 Ethical behaviour will ensure that engineering professional conduct work that they are
competent in. This guarantees quality work which will not only benefit society but also your
employer (financially).
 Corruption/bribery is a serious problem that seems to have affected every sector in society,
where at time it is possible for the engineering professional to be offered a bribe to violate
key elements of the relevant code of ethics. Non‐compliance to codes of ethics poses a serious
threat to the sustainable development. Therefore ethical behaviour will ensure compliance to
codes of conduct which will benefit society and the environment in the short and long term.
 The engineering profession plays a critical in the advancement of humanity and in the
economy of any country. It therefore has a reputation that must be upheld by all engineering
professionals. It is the responsibility of all professionals to uphold the standing and the
reputation of the professional through ethical behaviour.

5.5 Codes of conduct

The Codes of conduct are developed to regulate behaviour in a certain profession or organisation, this
section briefly discusses ECSA’s code of conduct of registered persons. Although, you may not be a

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registered person but you will be executing engineering work. Therefore you are required to execute
your work ethically and within the bounds of applicable legislation.

The objectives of the code of conduct are to ensure that the registered professional [4]
 Apply their knowledge and skill in the interests of the public and environment.
 Execute their work with integrity and in accordance with generally accepted norms of
professional conduct.
 Respect the interests of the public and honour the standing of the profession.
 Strive to improve their professional skills and those of their subordinates.
 Encourage excellence within the engineering profession.
 Do not prejudice public health and safety.
Further, the code states the rules that must be adhered to in fulfilling the above objectives and these
rules relate to competence, integrity, public interest, environment and the dignity of the profession.
The student is advised to obtain the latest copy of the code of conduct and familiarise themselves with
the contents thereof. Discuss the code of ethics with your industrial supervisor as well as its
applicability in your overall project. As a registered person, your supervisor will be able to offer
valuable advice.

The student must be able to elaborate on how they applied the above code of ethics in their project.
For example, there is a clause that states “a registered person must at all times have due regard for
and give priority to the health, safety and interest of the public”; the student must be able to explain
as to how the chosen solution ensure that the above clause is adhered to. Remember, in the real world
it is possible to disregard public interest as a result of budget and time constraints in your project.

Secondly, you will be executing your project in the workplace under an employer, you are therefore
encouraged to understand your employer’s code of ethics and adhere to it. Although your employer’s
ethics standard may be at organisational level, its applicability to your engineering work needs to be
well understood.

5.6 Ethics reporting

You are expected to exhibit ethical behaviour throughout all aspects and phases of your project.
Adherence to applicable ethical standards is non‐negotiable; therefore you are required compile an
ethics report that demonstrates how you complied with various ethical standards in your project
(especially ECSA’s code of conduct). This section provides the guideline with regards to your ethics

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report. Your report must answer the following questions as a minimum. In answering refer to specific
aspects or examples in your project.
 Explain in your own words why it is important for engineering professional to be ethical?
 Do you think you were/are ethical in your project? Explain your answer.
 Explain how you applied your technical knowledge in the interest of your public.
 Explain how you applied your technical knowledge in the interest of the environment.
 Elaborate on how you executed your project with integrity.
 Elaborate on how you complied with your employer’s code of conduct
Further, you must quote the applicable clause in the code of conduct. For example, under “integrity”
you may quote the following clause “registered personal must not engage in any act of dishonesty,
corruption or bribery” and thereafter elaborate on how you adhere to this clause.
Note: Your ethics report must be limited to a maximum of 4 pages and it will be included in your final
report for this module.

5.7 Practical examples

This section provides certain scenarios where a student is expected to make ethical decisions. This list
of examples is not exhaustive however it serves to highlight some real world scenarios that will require
the student to make tough ethical decisions.

Example 1:
Assume you have completed the design package for your project which is due in two days time. You
then realise that you made a serious error in your calculations which may result in your solution posing
a safety threat to the public. For you to rectify the error, you will require an additional 3 weeks which
means the project will be delayed by 3 weeks. Such a delay will result in the overall project missing its
deadline and exceeding its budget. What would you do?
Response 1: You can act dishonestly and submit the design with the error and not inform your
employer or your supervisor. This act will result in you meeting your deadline and not exceeding the
project budget at the expense of public interest. This is unethical behaviour.
Response 2: You can inform your employer and request an extension on your project. Although you
may be late and over budget but you would have considered the interest of the public. This is an
ethical response.

Example 2:
During the construction phase of the project, you realise that the contractor used different
(substandard) material from that which you specified in your design. The contractor made this

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decision in effort to cut cost for the project. You then decide to confront the contractor with this issue
and instead of changing the material he offers you a bribe in order for you to keep quiet and not
inform your employer. In addition, the impact of using substandard material will cause harm to the
environment and the public in general. What would you do?
Response 1: You can act dishonestly and accept the bribe and resign from your current employer and
seek employment somewhere else. This will result in financial benefit for you as an engineering
professional. This act will endanger the lives of the public and will negatively impact he environment.
This is unethical behaviour.
Response 2: You can refuse the bribe and report the contractor to your employer. This may result the
contractor being replaced with a more honest contractor. The overall impact is that this act prioritises
the public and the environment. Secondly it displays integrity on your part as you refused to be
corrupt. This is ethical behaviour.

Example 3:
Your employer requests you to skip or omit certain critical test procedures on your project due to the
fact that these tests will require specialised equipment which the company does not have. And you
know that these tests are important from a public safety point of view. Acquiring the test equipment
will increase the cost of the project. In return your employer promises you a permanent position or a
promotion in the company. What would you do?
Response 1: You can omit the test and be guaranteed permanent employment in the company. This
will result in financial for you due to the promotion. This act will endanger the lives of the public and
will negatively impact he environment; secondly this shows that you did not execute your work with
due diligence and honesty. This is unethical behaviour.
Response 2: You can turn down your employer’s offer and insists that tests should be done or the
project must delayed until such a time that funds for the test are available. The overall impact is that
this act prioritises the public and the environment; and further shows honesty from the engineering
professional. This is ethical behaviour.

The above examples show some of the ethical challenges that professionals face in the workplace. The
responses are not exhaustive however regardless of which response is chosen, the decision will either
be right or wrong according to certain ethical standards. The examples further demonstrate that
ethical behaviour is personal choice and responsibility.

Note: For further reading, the student is advised to read up on the concept of ethical dilemmas and
discuss relevant ethical issues of the day on the Discussion Forum for this module and see what lessons
can be learned.

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Part 2: Sustainability

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5.8 What is sustainability?

Sustainability is defined as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising
the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”. For example, the solutions that the present
generations develop must not negatively impact the environment as this would hinder future
generations’ ability to meet their needs. Therefore sustainable development is one that takes into
consideration the environmental, social and economic impact of the design/solutions throughout the
complete life cycle of the solution. In your industrial project you are engaging in an activity that will
have an impact on sustainability and is important that the concept of sustainability is incorporated in
the solution you propose for your project.

The engineering activity mainly focuses on using scientific knowledge to develop solutions for the
betterment of humanity. The products and services developed from engineering activity will at certain
point in the life cycle interact with society or the environment. Further, it is important that the
products do not bring harm to the environment and society in general. Hence sustainability is an
important element that must incorporated in all engineering activity. Part 2 of this study unit briefly
discusses concept of sustainability such as context for sustainability and tools for assessment of
“sustainability” of a solution. It does not discuss the process of developing a sustainable design but
rather focuses ensuring the components of sustainability incorporated in your project.

You are expected to conduct further reading on the topic and further demonstrate how the concept
of sustainability was applied in your selected solution. Students are encouraged to discuss
sustainability on the Discussion Forum for this module in the light of present crises in our country and
in the world.

5.9 Components of sustainability

Sustainability considers three components as listed below:

 Environment –the consequences of development on the environment. For example carbon

emission into the atmosphere is an example of development emitting gases that are
negatively impacting environment. In addition, the importance of this component is further
emphasises by its presence United Nations millennium goals (goal number 7) which states
“Ensure environmental sustainability”.

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  Society–the consequences of development on society or people. For example, the impact of
development on the health and safety of society.
 Economic–this refers to the profitability of a solution.

As you may have noticed, engineering is not mentioned as a component of sustainability however it
has a direct impact on all three components. For example, the engineering activity utilises resources
(from the environment) to produce products that in turn drive economic activity. A more practical
example is electricity generation which utilises coal from the environment to produce electricity; the
electricity is used by society. This implies that in order for sustainable development to occur,
sustainability must be incorporated in engineering activities.

Sustainability in engineering implies that all requirements of the sustainability components must be
considered. For example, a design must not harm the environment and it must also ensure the safety
and health of people. A principle behind a sustainable design is that you must think sustainability in
all phases of the design process.

5.10 Sustainable design

Figure 5.2 shows a schematic overview of a sustainable design. A sustainable design is centred on the
engineer who is responsible for developing solutions. The engineer has to incorporate sustainability
into the design which considers the business, society as well as the planet.

Figure 5.2: Schematic overview of a sustainable design (adapted from [4])

Viewed differently, the figure shows boundary from a sustainability point of view that the engineer
must operate within. For example, the business or your employer must place sustainability
requirements that you must adhere to as you design your project.

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5.11 Tools

This section discusses some tools that are utilised ensure that sustainability is incorporated into a
design.

Sustainability analysis Checklist

A simple checklist is used to check if a generated concept meets the sustainability requirements. If a
solution fails to meet the sustainability requirements then it must be modified, improved or changed
all together. An a example of a checklist shown in figure 5.3

Sustainability Analysis checklist

Goal
Does it provide in a need (enhancing human welfare)?

Economic
Is it profitable (short term, long term)?
Does it not deplete a scarce resource (long term, worldwide)?
Does it not cause external cost?

Social
Is this technology in compliance with government regulation?
Does it fit with local society (safety, health, and culture)?
No suspected toxic components in the product?

Environmental
No suspected harmful emissions to atmosphere, water or soil
process, and life cycle?

Figure 5.3: Suitability analysis check list (adapted from [4])

Quick scan life cycle assessment

The life cycle assessment (LCA) is used to determine the impact of a solution or design on the
environment. The full LCA assessment is a thorough process, hence for the concept stage, a quick scan
LCA is utilised to provide the designer with an indication regarding the sustainability (environmental)
of solutions. A layout of a quick LCA is shown in figure 5.4 below.

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 Quick scan LCA
1. Goal definition and scoping
Define functional unit.
Define system boundaries.

2. Inventory
Define all life cycle steps.
Draw all input and output streams (air, water, and soil).
Determine key components in each stream.

3. Impact assessment
Determine types of pollution.
Determine sizes of pollution.

4. Valuation
Normative criterion for valuation: The new design should be better
in some emission and input types and not worse on any of the
other emission and input types.

5. Improvement
Identify major contributions to pollutions.
Reduce pollution by re‐design relevant step.

Figure 5.4: Quick scan LCA (adapted from [4])

Other tools

This section merely lists the other tools and you are encouraged to conduct further reading on these
methods.

 Rapid integral development assessment.

 Rapid social acceptance guideline.

5.12 Sustainability report

You are expected to demonstrate that your design or solution incorporated sustainability; therefore
you will be required to compile a report on sustainability as one of your deliverables. This section
provides a guideline on the format and contents of the report. The report should contain three
sections namely introduction, body and a conclusion. The contents on these sections are briefly
discussed below.

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Introduction

As a minimum this section must contain the following:

 In your own words define what sustainability is and briefly discuss how it was incorporated
into your project.

Body

As a minimum this section must contain the following:

 Discuss in detail how sustainability was incorporated in your project.

 Name a tool that was used to assess the sustainability of your project.
 Discuss how your employer has embraced sustainability in their engineering design process.
 Discuss why is important to incorporate sustainability in your project.

Note: You have to decide on the headings for this section of the report.

Conclusion

As a minimum this section must contain the following:

 In this section you are to provide conclusion remarks on how well your project meets the
sustainability requirements.

Note: Report must not exceed 4 pages.

Further, as shown in study unit 4, you are required to explain/discuss the safety aspects of your project
(a maximum of an additional 2 pages have been allocated).Cite the respective safety regulations that
are applicable to your project (or regulations that were considered ).

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5.13 Conclusion

The moral compass or the ethical behaviour of an individual is largely determined by many factors i.e.
culture, background, belief system etc. when it comes to the engineering profession there are codes
of conduct that have been developed in an effort to regulate or define what is right and wrong. This
study unit provided a definition for the term “ethics”. Thereafter the various theories relating to ethics
were highlighted for information purposes for the student. The main aim of this study unit was expose
the student to the concept of ethics as well as the code of conduct that govern the engineering
profession. Since this module is based in the work place, it is expected that the student should
demonstrate compliance to the various codes of ethics. This will be demonstrated in ethics report that
will be compiled a part of the outcome of this study unit.

The practical examples presented in this study unit provided the students with the real world example
wherein ethical decision are expected. The may be many available responses to a given scenario,
however the final decision in most cases will either be right or wrong based on a certain code of ethics.
The examples further showed that for a project to be successfully implemented, ethical behaviour
from all affected stakeholders is vital. Ultimately ethical behaviour is personal choice.

Part 2 of this study guide discussed the concept of the sustainability in the engineering context. You
have to show that sustainability was incorporated in your proposed solution. This will demonstrate in
the sustainability report for your module. Ultimately, the overall theme of this study unit is that ethical
behaviour is an integral part of sustainable development.

The student should now be familiar with the concept of ethics and sustainability, and further be able
to compile the ethics and sustainability reports for their project.

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5.14 Study unit review questions

Ethics

1) What are ethics?

2) Name 3 categories of ethics.
3) Explain the term normative ethics.
4) What is the purpose of a “code of conduct”?
5) Name 4 objectives of the ECSA code of conduct.
6) Name 2 examples wherein you had to make ethical decisions in your project.
7) Compile an ethics report for your project (limit the report to 2 pages).

Sustainability

1) What is sustainability?
2) Why is sustainability or sustainable development important?
3) Name and explain the 4 contexts of sustainability.
4) Name and explain the 3 components of sustainability.
5) Goal number 7 on the United nations millennium goals states ______________?

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Bibliography

[1] www.ecsa.co.za/engineeringsa/sitepages/What_is_Engineering.aspx accessed on 15 December

2018.

[2] Dym C.L, Little P, Orwin E.J,” Engineering Design: A Project‐Based Introduction”, Fourth edition,
Wiley, 2014
[3] Catalano G.D,” Engineering Ethics: Peace, Justice, and the Earth”, Second edition,
Morgan&Claypool Publishers, 2014
[4] Jonker G., Harmsen J., “Engineering for Sustainability: A practical guide for sustainable design”,
First edition, Elsevier, 2012

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 Study unit 6: Scientific writing

Learning outcomes

On completion of this study unit, you will be able to:

 Use acceptable/applicable scientific writing conventions in an engineering industrial setting.

 Apply typographical aspects in the compilation of your reports.
 Apply certain written communication tips in your reports.
 Use appropriate referencing styles.

Graduate attributes:

‐ Attribute 6: Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with engineering audiences
and the affected parties.

6.1 Introduction

The industrial project is mainly about application of theoretical knowledge to solve problem in
industry; this implies that you will be required to communicate with other professionals in writing
regarding your project. For UNISA, you are expected to write various scientific reports as shown in
study unit 1. There are certain guidelines that must be adhered in writing such reports; for example,
all conclusions must be based on repeatable and logical facts. This study discusses tips, typographical
aspects, scientific conventions and referencing aspects relating to scientific writing; and the contents
herein must be utilised when the various reports for this module are compiled. The contents of this
study unit must be used together with the information provided in study unit 4.

6.2 Thirteen tips for written communication[1]

6.1.1.1. Make a plan

If you fail to plan then you plan to fail. Throughout the project a significant amount of information is
generated and compressing the information into a report may be challenge. As such it is important to
map out which points will be included as topics in your report. Draft the plan of which sections will be
included in your report and how these sections will relate.

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6.1.1.2. Be objective

Scientific communication should be based on logical and rational discourse. A common mistake at
times is marketing how successful the project was without providing any scientist justification. As a
student, you must evaluate objectively and NOT make a sales pitch of your project. Caution: The use
of advertising material as a reference may cause you to use sales talk in your presentation. The panel
will consist of experts and they will need to see models, simulation results, calculation result etc.

6.1.1.3. Support your facts

Your writing can, and should, make statements of facts. Your statements should be supported either
by a line of reasoning (results and logical conclusions) or by a reference to the work of experts.

6.1.1.4. Be concise

Get straight to the point with your statements. Do not use unnecessary phrase that prolong a
sentence. For the following sentence “the simulation results were impressive to such an extent that
the departmental manager gave the project team an award as he saw them he was amazed and the
results are shown in table 1 below” can be stated as “the simulation result are shown in table 1”.

6.1.1.5. Be definite

Remember this is scientific writing. Be definite with your statement. For example, “the circuit breaker
operated in 1s” rather than “the circuit breaker operated very fast”.

6.1.1.6. One paragraph, one idea

A single paragraph should contain a single idea. Avoid overly long paragraphs, if possible; your writing
will be clearer and easier to read if the paragraphs are crisp and concise.

6.1.1.7. Simplify

KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) is a good approach to any communication. You report must explain the
detail in a simple manner that other experts will understand.

6.1.1.8. Use appropriate terms

Use technical terms that are appropriate to the field of study. This will further demonstrate to the
panel that you personally worked on the project. However, always elaborate on acronyms as they
appear on your report. All acronyms must be defined in your abbreviation list.

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6.1.1.9. Do not use “I” or “my”

The words ‘I’ and ‘my’ should not be used your report. If you present a valid argument, then you can
draw conclusions without using statements such as ‘I think that ...’, or ‘it is my view that ...’. If you
have to give a personal opinion that is not fully supported, then the use of' ‘the author’ is preferred.

6.1.1.10. Use only credible sources

Ensure that you only use credible material in your report. A colleague’s opinion cannot be referenced
as fact, therefore always ensure that the source material is credible and reputable sources. Refer to
the literature review study unit (in the EIP3701 module) for more information

6.1.1.11. Be careful with the ‘Truth’

Never state a particular religious, political, or humanistic world‐view as a truth (fact). The fact that
you believe, or even know, something to be so, still does not allow you to state it as a fact without
reference or empirical evidence.

6.1.1.12. Avoid “story‐telling”

An anecdotal style of writing is unacceptable. ‘Little stories’ from personal experience to illustrate
points do not belong in a scientific document.

6.1.1.13. Don’t use emotive words

Don't use emotive words. ‘Wonderful’, ‘ghastly’, ‘horrid’ and ‘lovely’ are subjective terms and
therefore must not be used in objective, scientific writing.

6.3 Typographical aspects

When writing a scientific report you must be consistent in the formatting of your report. If your figures
in chapter 1 are centred then all figures in the report must be centred, that is, you must maintain
consistency throughout your document. The following subsection discusses some typographical
considerations when drafting your report.

Report must be typed

A scientific report must be typed using a word‐processor. Apart from the extra features a word‐
processor (e.g. MS Word) provides (e.g. spell‐checks), revisions can be performed easily and quickly,

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and the resultant document can be electronically distributed. Further, your document can be easily
reviewed electronically; the “track changes” and “comments” functionality enables the reviewers to
electronically comment on your report.

Printing

The printer used in the printing of your report must be of good quality. A laser printer is
recommended. All copies of the report must printed, do not make photocopies as this will affected
the legibility and/or quality of the report.

Fonts

The font used determines the shape of the letters you read. The fonts for the body text (as opposed
to that for various headings, footnotes; and so on) is normally a standard font such as Arial. Avoid the
use of ornate fonts such as wide Latin and script fonts ‐ while they may look impressive, they are hard
on the eye. Spacing should be around one‐and‐a‐half: both too little and too much white space
between lines makes the text hard to read.

Headings

There are many typographical approaches to headings and subheadings. Different fonts, font sizes,
bold typeface, text justification (left, right or centre) and (occasionally) underlining can all be effective.
One possible scheme is to have chapter headings centred in large bold capitals, section headings left‐
justified in bold lowercase, and subheadings left‐justified in lowercase italics. Take note of the
additional requirements in study unit 4.

Emphasis

If you want to stress a particular word or phrase, use italics or bold.

Underlining is also an option, but this does tend to 'cramp' the surrounding text and distract the eye.
The use of exclamation marks to emphasise points for example important!!! very!!! should not be
done.

Quotation

Direct quotation should be surrounded by quotation marks. The use of either single or double
quotation is acceptable, (e.g. Le Roux stated that ‘Nihilism is nothing to be worried about’, or Zuma
remarks “Mind over matter, is a matter of the mind”, though the rule is usually ‘singles first, “doubles”
inside singles’. Obviously, direct quotations must be referenced. (Note that you must copy a

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quotation exactly, even if it does contain errors. You can indicate that the source was in error, rather
than it being your mistake, by inserting ‘[sic]’ in square brackets, where the error occurs.)

Widows and orphans

An orphan is the first line of a paragraph, which sits by itself at the bottom of a page, and a widow is
the last line of a paragraph that sits by itself at the top of a page. These should be avoided. In
particular, a heading or subheading must be followed on the same page by at least two lines of the
section it heads. Focus on rectifying this during the revision and proof‐reading phase of your report
in a printed version as it may differ from the electronic version.

6.4 Scientific conventions [2]

This subsection discusses certain scientific conventions that are normally used in scientific writing. You
are to incorporate these conventions when compiling your project report.

Equations

Equations are common in most (if not all) scientific writing and they are normally included in text as
follows:

1. Equation can be inserted in a sentence, the equation is inserted using a colon and the sentence
continue after the equation, as example is shown in below:
The voltage V was calculated the using the equation:
V = IR (7.1)
Where I is the current and R is the resistance.
2. An equation can be inserted such that it is preceded and succeeded by a complete sentence,
as example is shown in below:
The voltage was calculated the using equation 7.2 for the given circuit.
V = IR (7.2)
It is however important to note that voltage is directly proportional to current.

Further an equation is always indented and referenced of the far right as shown in the above
examples.

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Units of measurement

The unit of measure are important as a mistake may have catastrophic consequence if not correctly
especially when calculations are done. There is a significant different between 10 A and 10 kA. As you
will be writing a scientific report you must ensure the units are correctly documented, take note of
the use and non‐use of capital letters. For the measuring unit for length is a small letter “m” whereas
the unit for electrical current is capital letter “A” and k is for kilo and K is for Kelvin.

Acronyms

Acronyms form an important part of scientific writing as they improve the readability of a report, for
example, instead of writing “University of South Africa”, the acronym UNISA may be used. The
definition is provided below:

 Acronyms are formed by using the first letter of each word in a phrase and they are capitalised.
For example, UNISA (University of South Africa). The acronym is pronounced as a new word.
In report writing the rule is that when the acronym appears for the first time in text in must
be immediately followed by the full phrase in brackets or the full phrase must be written first
and immediately followed by the acronym in bracket. On subsequent appearances or usage
on your report only the acronym should be stated without the full phrase. An example is show
below:
o The University of South Africa (UNISA) requires all students to submit their assignment
on time. The assignments are to be submitted on the UNISA website.

All acronyms must be defined in your abbreviation list.

Bullet points and numbered lists

There is always a need to present lists in a report and numbered lists (or bullet points) are a tool of
organising information in a logical manner. A list can be single words or sentences. List can be
presented any of the following manners:

 May be provided as separate for the main sentence as bulleted or numbered points. Refer to
the example below:
A presentation consists of the following sections
o Introduction
o Body
o Conclusion

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 Or the number version of the list is shown below:
1. Introduction
2. Body
3. Conclusion
 The list can be contained in a sentence as shown below
A presentation consists of the following sections: (1) Introduction, (2) Body, and (3)
Conclusion.
It is important to note the usage of the colon, commas as well as the “and”

6.5 Referencing

A requirement of scientific writing is that, whenever you use results reported by other people, or
directly quote their work, you inform your reader as to exactly where you obtained those results. This
is known as referencing. Such information includes the name of the author(s) of the work, the title of
the work, where it was published and the date of publication, e.g.:

[1] Swart PH., “Industrial project study guide: IPR400EE”., UNISA,1998

The section below discusses why referencing is important.

6.5.1 Why reference?

There are a number of reasons why correct referencing is vital. The most important ones are:

Credibility

Referencing gives credibility to statements that are made within a report as well as credibility of the
solutions or theories that may be derived from the statements. The theory behind of your project is
based on work by other professionals or researchers within your field. It is more credible to quote the
work of a researcher as well as the source than to simply state “a research said that…”. Further,
credibility means that readers can access the publication with ease if they wish to verify or double‐
check a fact.

Credit (avoiding plagiarism)

By not adequately giving credit where it is due, you place yourself at risk of being thought of as falsely
representing somebody else's work as your own (plagiarism). To avoid plagiarism ensure that your
acknowledge all professionals and researchers whose work was a useful input to your project. Note:
Refer to UNISA’s policy on plagiarism.

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Directing readers to related research

As you may have noticed when conducting the literature review of your project, in some cases some
sources may have directed you to additional useful information. Readers may be interested in a certain
topic within your report which they may want to conduct research on; therefore, referencing provides
important pointers to such valuable information.

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6.6 Conclusion

The ability to communicate your project information in written form is an important skill to possess
as an engineering professional. This study unit mainly provided tips that must be considered in
compiling a scientific report, ensure that you apply these ideas in your final project report. The main
point is that scientific writing is factual in nature and should always be evidence‐based to support any
statement your make. In cases, where you develop a novel solution, the scientific theories underlying
that solution must be explicitly stated. In cases, where a solution is developed based on existing
theories, these must also be referenced.

The feedback from your previous progress reports should be utilised and incorporated in your final
report. You must maintain consistency in the style that you use in your report; revising and proof
reading your report assists in ensuring that consistency is maintained. Remember some professional
proof readers may not be experts in your field and there is risk that they may alter the meaning of
your report. The student must verify that the tips are adhered to subsequent to a review by a
professional proof reader. Take note that your final report is written for UNISA and it must be a
scientific document.

The student should now understand the concept of scientific writing and be in a position to compile a
scientific report for the project.

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6.7 Study unit review questions
1) What is scientific writing?
2) Why is scientific writing important?
3) Name the 13 tips to be considered in scientific writing.
4) Did you consider the typographical aspects in your report?
5) What is referencing?
6) Why referencing important and did you adequately reference all your sources?

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Bibliography

[1] Swart PH., “Industrial project study guide:IPR400EE”., UNISA,1998.

[2] Bottomley J., “Academic writing for international students of science”., Hoboken:Routledge, 2014.

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 Study unit 7: Project Presentation

Learning outcomes

On completion of this study unit, you will be able to:

 Develop and prepare for a presentation wherein you show that you have applied the
required elements in presentation.
 Prepare for a question and answer session of a presentation.

Graduate attributes:

‐ Attribute 6: Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with engineering audiences
and the affected parties.

7.1 Introduction

The examination for this module is based on a personal presentation of your industrial project. Prior
to compiling the presentation, all the required deliverables (including the final project report) should
be submitted as per the tutorial letter timelines. The ability to deliver an oral presentation is an
important skill that a technologist in the 21st century needs to acquire. Presentations, when properly
done, are an effective mechanism of “communicating with others in the course of your engineering
activities”. During the course of the project, a huge amount of information is generated and it
important to be able to summarise it in a presentation so that other experts in your chosen field may
understand. The final step in your project or the EIP3702 module is the preparation and delivery of a
presentation (examination) relating to your project.

In the EIP3701, the students presented their first presentation for the project to a panel of experts
and academics. The first presentation mainly focused on progress up to the concept selection phase.
The aim of the first presentation was partly aimed at exposing the student to presenting technical
presentations as well as preparing them for the final project presentation. You will be expected to
deliver presentations throughout your career to various committees and it is therefore suggested that
you view the content of this study as a foundation your presentation skills.

For UNISA, your presentation is the main method through which the lecturers can verify the student’s
contribution in their industrial project. It is the only platform through which a panel of experts can

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test your understanding of the theoretical aspects and your ability to apply it in solving engineering
problems. Students need to ensure that their contribution in a project is clearly stated; do not present
other people’s work as your own. A presentation typically has two parts, namely: the main
presentation where student presents and a Q&A session where the panel asks the student questions
regarding their project to determine the depth of their knowledge.

This study unit discusses the basic concepts regarding preparing and delivering a presentation as well
as the requirement for the final project presentation. Further, several common mistakes that
presenters make, are highlighted. Students are advised to incorporate feedback/comments from the
EIP3701 presentation into their final project presentation.

7.2 What is a technical presentation?

A presentation is a lecture of relative medium time length regarding a project or a product or a topic
with aim of transferring knowledge and influencing opinions [1]. A technical presentation can be
described as a presentation that is given by technical experts such engineers, scientist etc. Such
presentations typically contain a significant amount of technical information and in this case the
project management aspects such as project schedule and risks will be are required. In addition, the
presentation will be required to contain ethical and sustainability aspects that were considered during
course of the project.

7.3 Objectives of a presentation

Presentations normally aim to achieve the following three objectives: Informing, Persuading and
Influencing [1].These objectives are applicable to any type of presentation. Student may be expected
by their employer to present to various committees in the work place i.e. investment committees or
technical committees. The content of a presentation tends to differ based on the audience however
the objectives are universal.
 Informing: In this objective, technical knowledge is summarised and documented in an
understandable manner and thereafter communicated to other people (audience). Further,
the huge amounts of data generated via for example, your literature review has to be
packaged in manner that can easily understood as you present.
 Persuading: In this objective, the presenter aims to persuade the audience regarding the
quality of the work being presented, in other words, the presenter aims to persuade the panel
the regarding the relevance of the theory to the engineering problem. The student needs to
show that the solution selected was the best solution and sound engineering judgement was

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 applied. Lastly, the audience must be persuaded regarding the student’s competence in the
selected field.
 Influencing: the last objective of a presentation is to influence the audience (or panel) to act
in a desired manner. For the student, the overall aim to influence the panel to give a score for
the module. Another example is when presenting to an investment committee, the aim would
be to influence the committee to approve funding for your project.

7.4 Required elements in presentation

A good presentation is one that meets the above three objectives; the following lists the element must
be shown in your presentation.
1 Clearly show your contribution: You need to demonstrate your contribution in the project, discuss
the decisions that you have made based your theoretical knowledge and literature review
(research). It is advisable to speak in first person, for example “I conducted a simulation for the
various options”.
2 No grammar errors: Grammar errors are a sign of poor preparation and you will be penalised, in
addition do not make statements that are not technically sound, for example “voltage is inversely
proportional to current”. Remember one of your objectives is to persuade the panel of your
competence in the application of theory to solve a broadly defined engineering problem.
3 It must be a summarised version of the final project report: You presentation should be a
summarised version of your final report. Section 7.5 below shows some of the minimum required
content of your presentation. Note: This does not mean you include too much text in your
presentation. Use the presentation from the EIP3701 module (as a base) and compile your final
presentation thereon.
4 Deliver the presentation within the given timeframe: You presentation duration must not exceed
the allocated time. You will be stopped when your allocated time lapses therefore ensure you
present all your slides within the given time. Be careful that process of setting up your
presentation does not waist your presentation time.
5 Answer all question correctly: Subsequent to presenting your slides, the panel will ask questions
relating to your presentation. Your answer to a question will demonstrate your competence in the
selected field. Do not give one‐word answers, always elaborate on your answers to show the
depth of your knowledge. As a golden rule 90% preparation and 10% presentation.

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7.5 Planning your presentation

Presenting is mainly about conveying a certain message to an audience, as result planning is a key
aspect of delivering a good presentation. You have spent a significant amount of time working on your
project and the aim of planning is to ensure that you present the correct information and prepare for
possible questions from the panel. This subsection presents a guide to planning, creating and
delivering your presentation. There are 8 steps that are involved in this process, refer to figure 7.1.

Figure 7.1: Steps to creating a presentation [1]

Step 1: Define framework and target

In this the step, the conditions or framework of a presentation are stated. The conditions relate to
time allocated, type of audience, information required by audience, format of presentation, aim of
presentation, location of presentation, type of presentation. In this module, you are required to make
a technical presentation and the student should not market a product or make a sales pitch. You are
advised to discuss with your industrial supervisor.

Adequately executing this step improves your chances of a successful presentation; an example of a
framework is shown in table 7.1 below.

Aspect Description[2]
Title The title of the project is to be stated.
Audience or target group State the audience e.g. a professor, a supervisor
at work, colleagues, an industrial expert, panel
of experts, people with no limited or no
technical knowledge.

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 Time frame State the timeframe, for this module it is 30
minutes (20 minutes presentation and 10
minutes Q&A).
Presentation type For this module, it is a technical presentation.
Venue Small boardroom or a huge lecture hall.
Media How will the presentation be made, via a
projector or charts? In this module a projector
will be utilised.
Presentation purpose The purpose of the presentation is to be stated,
an example is shown below:
Main purpose:
Obtain good marks for Industrial project
module.
Desired effect:
‐Demonstrate my contribution in the project.
‐Demonstrate competence in the module
outcomes.
‐Obtain expert feedback and advice on
improvements of my project.
Table 7.1: Presentation framework and target guideline
On completion of your presentation framework, you should now have a holistic overview with regards
to what is expected from you.

Step 2: Material collection and selection

The project information is available as it has been collected (via literature review and interaction with
experts) and generated as you progressed through the project phases. Note: all projects tend to
develop new information that relates to that specific project. Therefore in this step you should select
the information that is suitable for your presentation.

Step 3: Creative phase

This step entails the process of creating the presentation. Presentations tend to follow a typical
generic structure shown in figure 7.2 (below). A presentation has the following sections: Introduction,
Main body and conclusions.

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 Figure 7.2: Typical structure of a presentation [2]
The student has 20 minutes to deliver the presentation and therefore the challenge is the ability to be
creative in compressing a huge amount of information into 20 minutes (Refer to section 7.6 for more
detail.)

Step 4: Summarising and drafting of details

In step 3, the overall structure of your presentation was determined, in this step, the students must
summarise the project information to align with the structure. Summarising your information means,
briefly discussing each item on the structure by highlighting the key points. The student must be
cognisant of the fact that they will asked questions on any information included in the slides (as well
on your project report), hence you must be able to answer questions or expand on every statement,
graph, formulae etc. that you include on your slide.

Drafting of details include selecting the information that is suitable for your structure and would have
a significant impact on your panel. Further, details must be presented in a manner that can be easily
understood by the panel. For example, if your slide contains too much text and you as a presenter,
read directly from your slides, you will definitely confuse your panel. Although the panel will consist
of academics and experts, you still need to adequately present your project work with clarity. The use
of visualisation is advised (discussed in the next step) as a picture tends to be comprehended easily.

Step 5: Visualisation
Technical presentations need to contain visualisations (sketches, graphs etc.).Visualisations have the
advantage of minimising text on a presentation while simultaneously enabling the audience to
visualise the point being conveyed. The presenter is further able to summarise results and the need
for manuscripts or note cards is eliminated.

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Summarising your information means consolidating information in a format that an audience can
easily comprehend. For example, simulation results for the different options will make more sense to
the audience when presented on the same graph (for comparison purposes). Another example, it is
much easier to explain a process using a flowchart or flow diagram, the diagram must be contained in
one slide. Do not explain a process over number slides of using too much text because this will confuse
your audience. In short, once step 4 is completed, you must think about which visualisations you will
use to summarise your information.

You should be able to fully explain and answer question in relation to your visualisations. Note: in a
presentation the audience totally rely on the presenter for an explanation of all graphs, figure etc;
unlike in written report where a reader has the advantage of reading the supporting text to get an
understanding of a figure. All axis on the graph must be clearly defined and the units are clear. The
salient points annotated, especially direction of better performance.

Step 6: Trial presentation and improvement

On the preceding steps, you have summarised and drafted the details of your presentation; and used
visualisations. Hence, your draft presentation has been completed. The next logical step is to practice
your presentation (steps 6) on your own. It is advisable to request a session in which you will make a
presentation to your supervisor. Take note of your supervisor’s feedback and fine tune your
presentation accordingly. The trial presentation may be evaluated by checking the following:
 Does the duration fit the required time
 Is information presented in a logical manner? Does the presentation have an adequate flow?
 Is the any information that needs to be added or removed to enhance better understanding
by the audience
 Are the figures and tables readable and understandable? Do they make sense to an audience?
 Have I met the targets of the presentation in line with the presentation framework
The student needs to be cognisant of the fact that the panel members will not have intimate
knowledge (like your industrial supervisor) of your project; therefore you need to ensure that your
presentation highlights important aspects of your project. Do not assume that the panel knows all the
details regarding your project. It is advisable that you further make a presentation to your colleagues
(who may be engineers or technologists) that are not involved in our project as their input will give
you an idea of where you may need to improve.

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Lastly, the overall aim of making a presentation is to demonstrate to a panel that you actually did the
work and are competent in your areas of contribution. Hence, as you practice and respond to
questions ensure that your competence is demonstrated with the depth of your knowledge.

Step 7: Updating of your presentation and final preparations

From the feedback obtained in step 6, the presentation needs to be updated. Ensure that you discuss
the final presentation with your industrial supervisor prior to submitting. Now that the presentation
is complete, the student needs to make the following preparations (from a personal point of view).
 Make sure that you arrive early for your presentation, at least 2 hours before.
 Be calm and confident. You are presenting your own work therefore you must be confident
when you present.
 Be well rested, that is, have sufficient sleep the night before.
 Make sure you have the correct version of your presentation, it advisable to have 2 or 3 back‐
ups of your presentation on different memory sticks and be prepared for power failures.
 If you have any working prototypes, make sure you bring them along.
 Familiarise yourself with your venue and the technology available (which is the reason why
you must arrive early).
 If you have to use a microphone make sure it is properly pointed and mouth air sounds are
not amplified.
 Prepare your clothes the night before (formal dress code).

Step 8: Deliver your presentation

This is the step where the presentation is delivered. You will be required to make numerous
presentations throughout your career; hence you should view this presentation as a learning curve in
improving your presentation skills. Have a glass of water ready during your presentation.

7.6 Required presentation format

Time slot
Your presentation is programmed/planned according to time slots. Do not waist time to set up your
presentation.
Duration
The presentation must not exceed 20 minutes and there will be 10 minutes allocated to questions.
The panel will strictly adhere to the above time limits; in short, once the allocated time lapses the
student will be stopped.

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Formatting and style
The student may adopt any formatting (preferably the employer’s) for the presentation however the
following aspects must adhere to:
 Font type: Arial.
 Consistency: If you choose to make one slide title “bold” then this must be applied on all slides.
 The first slide must be as shown below:

Figure 7.3: First slide layout

 The second slide must be an overview slide showing or listing the main sections of your
presentation.
 Presentation must be in English
 There is no prescribed limit on the number of slides however student must be cognisant of
the fact that a presentation is a summary of your report.

Structure
The presentation follows the typical structure stated in figure 7.2. This subsection discusses the some
aspects that must be included/discussed in your presentation. Note: The aspects below are not
necessarily the slide title suggestions for your presentation.
Summary

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  Project Background
 Problem statement
Main body
 Literature review (research)
 Concept selection
 Detail design and detail design process
 Solution implementation
 Ethics and sustainability
 Safety issues addressed
 Financial aspects
Conclusion
 Conclusion
 Lesson learnt and recommendation
Students are allowed to include additional information and topics as they see fit and take note of the
process described in section 7.5.

7.7 Question and Answer session

The second part of the presentation will be a question and answer (Q&A) session. In this slot, the panel
will ask you questions based on your presentation and information that relates to your project. In
most cases, you will not know what questions will be asked however the following tips are suggested
[3] to help you better answer or respond to questions:
 Listen attentively. This will enable you to understand the question properly. Never the
interrupt a panel member while he/she is in process on asking a question.
 If you are not clear regarding the question, repeat it out loud and confirm with the panel
member.
 Before answering a question, pause and frame your answer in your head first prior to
answering.
 Answer the question posed directly; be brief and direct. Do not spend a significant amount of
time expanding on one question. Respect the knowledge of the person that asked the
question. Your answer to a layman is not the same as that to a professor.
 Try to spot dilemmas, i.e. questions without answers, and indicate how you worked around
it.
 Maintain eye contact with the panel members as you answer questions.
 Try to keep calm and do not take offense. Do not be aggressive and defensive, strive to be
courteous.

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  Always answer in first person, if the question relates to your direct contribution.
 Answer your questions in English and do not use slang.
You are advised to use feedback and comments from your first presentation; this will assist in in
anticipating the type of questions that may be asked.

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7.8 Conclusion

Your project presentation is the second and final presentation (to UNISA) regarding your project and
it should therefore be of the highest standard. Your presentation skills improve as you practice and
present to varying audiences, hence it is recommended that you provide presentations to various
committees in the workplace so as gain experience in preparing a presentation for different audiences.
In each presentation take note of the required format and structure. Further, you must learn to
present without using a note card or placing too much text on your presentation. Keep in mind that
the objective of your presentation is to inform, persuade and influence. During your trial presentation
with your supervisor or colleagues request feedback with regards to the above objectives, ask
questions such as: “Was the presentation informative, persuasive and influencing?” “Is my
contribution clearly presented?” Learn to take criticism constructively without resorting to arguing
with your audience.

The steps to preparing a presentation presented in this study unit are intended for students who are
not experienced in delivering presentations. The ability to use visualisation effectively is important as
they enable you to summarise information adequately and efficiently. Further, the effective use of
visualisations mainly depends on the presenter’s ability to properly explain the contents thereof. The
student should therefore be knowledgeable in all aspects of his/her project. Take note of the personal
preparations that you must undertake such as arriving early and adequately resting the night before.
These minor aspects of your preparations, if taken for granted may have catastrophic outcome, for
example arriving late for your presentation may result in you not scoring good points as you may not
have enough time to present. Remember you need to be professional and the panel will not accept
any excuses. The Q&A session of the presentation is an opportunity for you demonstrate your
competence in the selected field. Be confident, answer directly and straight to the point with a clear
and enthusiastic voice. Always maintain eye contact with the audience.

The student should now be able to prepare and deliver their final project presentation to a panel of
experts. This study unit has provided guidelines that relate to delivering good presentations as well
the content that is required for this module. In addition, the student is advised to do further reading
with regards to presentations (consult the bibliography list).

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7.9 Study unit review questions
1) What is a technical presentation?
2) What are the objectives of a presentation?
3) Name the minimum required elements of a presentation.
4) Name the steps involved in planning a presentation.
5) For your project, execute the following steps:
a) Define the presentation framework and target.
b) Select the suitable material to include in your presentation.
c) Develop a structure.
d) Summarise and draft the details.
e) Decide which visualizations will be adequate.
f) Deliver trial presentation to your supervisor and colleagues. Take note of the feedback
received.
g) Update you presentation and make improvements based on the feedback received.
6) Did you incorporate the feedback and comments from the EIP3701 presentation?
7) Name a few tips that are important when answering question during a Q&A session.

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Bibliography

[1] Hering L., Hering H,., “How to Write Technical Reports: Understandable Structure, Good Design,
Convincing Presentation.”., Springer, 2010.

[2] Silyn‐Roberts H., “Writing for science and Engineering: Papers, presentations and reports.”.,
Butterworth‐Heinemann, 2000.

[3] M. Davis, K.J. Davis, M.M. Dunagan “Scientific Papers and Presentations”, Third edition, Elsevier,
2012.

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UNISA 2020

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