Introduction to structural mechanics

ME-104 : Course Book

Lecturer(s): Junge Till

                       Nunes Pereira de Almeida Reis Pedro Miguel

Language: English

Summary

The student will acquire the basis for the analysis of static structures and deformation of simple structural elements. The focus is given to problem-solving skills in the context of engineering design.

Content

The course presents the fundamental basis for the analysis of static structures. The course material is presented with an emphasis on abstraction, formulation, and solution of simplified mathematical models, which make it possible to design and analyze real structures and mechanisms rationally. Concrete engineering examples and demonstrations are provided throughout the course. Through a combination of lectures, example problems, practical demonstrations and hands-on activities, the student will be introduced to structural analysis and learn how to calculate internal loads in simple structural systems. The course also serves as an introduction to the more advanced engineering mechanics curriculum that EPFL students will be exposed to later in their degree, including structural mechanics, continuum mechanics, and solid mechanics.

The course may cover, but not exclusively, the following topics:

• System of forces;
• Equilibrium of a rigid body;
• Simple structures (trusses, frames, and machines);
• Distributed loads;
• Energy methods to analyze structures;
• Deformation of simple structural elements;
• Instability and failure.

Keywords

Statics, Equilibrium, Mechanism, Structure

Learning Prerequisites

 

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, the student must be able to:

• Model and analytically solve simple problems of statics and stress analysis, S1
• Analyze and design assemblies of simple mechanical elements in the framework of static and buckling S2

Transversal skills

• Use a work methodology appropriate to the task.
• Plan and carry out activities in a way which makes optimal use of available time and other resources.
• Continue to work through difficulties or initial failure to find optimal solutions.
• Assess one’s own level of skill acquisition, and plan their on-going learning goals.

Teaching methods

Lectures, example problems, homework, practical demonstrations and hands-on activities.

Assessment methods

The course concludes with a written exam.

Supervision

Resources

 

Prerequisite for

Mécanique des structures, Systèmes mécaniques.

In the programs

Mechanical Engineering, 2019-2020, Bachelor semester 2

Reference week

Under construction

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