MEC3455 - Solid mechanics - 2017

This unit aims to develop an understanding of the analytical methodologies used in strength and stiffness assessment of engineering structures and components. It allows students to translate real-world forces into abstract form for engineering modelling of a range of common problems found in industry and gain knowledge of the relationship between analysis and design. Students will be exposed to a wide range of analytical tools and modeling philosophies. To complement these analytical solution techniques, students will now be taught the fundamentals of finite element analysis.

At the successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

1. Describe the strength and stiffness aspects of engineering structures and components.
2. Apply a range of modelling tools and analytical methodologies and develop confidence in evaluating new engineering problems and formulating original solutions.
3. Apply the principles of solid mechanics in engineering analysis and design.
4. Determine elastic and inelastic stresses, deflections in simple and compound beams, pressure vessels and flat plates.
5. Apply the concept of loads and load paths, calculate shear stresses in thin-walled sections and predict stress and strains in non-circular cross-sections members under torsional loading.
6. Generate finite element analysis of solid mechanics problems and identify factors influencing the accuracy of results.

In-semester assessment: 30%

Examination (3 hours): 70%

Students are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component (assignments, tests, mid-semester exams, laboratory reports) and at least 45% in the final examination component and an overall mark of 50% to achieve a pass grade in the unit. Students failing to achieve this requirement will be given a maximum of 45% in the unit.

3 hours lectures, 3 hours practice sessions and 6 hours of private study per week

See also Unit timetable information

Professor Chris Davies

MEC2403