Syllabus for Structural Mechanics

Learning outcomes

After passing the course, the student must be able to: 

* formulate equilibrium conditions for planar systems, 

* analyze bars, plane trusses, beams and shafts with respect to internal forces, stresses and deformations, 

* analyze indeterminate beams, 

* treat multiaxial stress and deformation states, 

* apply yield conditions for multiaxial stress states, 

* determine critical loads for compression loaded columns, 

* analyze dynamic loads using one-degree-of-freedom models.

Content

The overall aim is to be able to understand/simplify given problems in structural mechanics, apply basic principles to solve problems, analyse/correct solution, check their answers and develop their competent to solve more complex problems. 

Some examples for problems in structural mechanics are analyzing a beam, truss or frame. Also note that we actually live in a three-dimensional space. But when it comes to basic courses in structural mechanics, you have to simplify it to one- and two-dimensional problems to be able to solve it with hand calculations. Later in more advanced courses you can use some methods to solve more complex three-dimensional structures.

Forces and moments. Equilibrium conditions. Axially loaded bars and plane trusses. Bending of beams and twisting of shafts. Plastic deformation in beams. Statically indeterminate beams and frames. The support angle for Indeterminate Beams and Frames. Elastic instability of compressive columns. Multiaxial stress and deformation states. Hooke's law. Yield criterias. Introduction to vibration. 

Instruction

Lectures, calculation exercises and assignments.

Assessment

Assignments (2 credits) and written exam (3 credits) after part 1 with grade G or U. Assignments (2 credits) and written exam (3 credits) after part 2 with final 

grade U, 3, 4 or 5. 

If there are special reasons, the examiner may make exceptions to the specified examination method and allow an individual student to be examined in a different way. Special reasons can e.g. be notified of special pedagogical support from the university's coordinator for students with disabilities.