Solid Mechanics - 2023 entry

This module will provide students with extended understanding of the theories in Solids Mechanics and their applicability in stress/strain analysis, including motion/equilibrium equations, compatibility equations, Hooke's law, elasticity and plasticity, boundary conditions for complex engineering problems, and energy methods for stress and deformation analysis. Such essential engineering knowledge will equip students with commonly required capabilities in mechanics modelling, solving a mechanics model for stress and deformation on a practical problem, conducting stress concentration analysis, interpolating experimental data and associating with industrial problems, and performing basic finite element analysis on structure behaviours. Students are expected to comprehensively use the knowledge and skills attained above to solve various real-life engineering problems in their senior- year modules, individual and group projects, and future career.

This module aims to illustrate the fundamental principles of stress and deformation in a solid under complex loading associated with the elemental structures/components in civil and mechanical engineering. The understanding of solids mechanics will provide the ability to analyse problems in terms of strength and deformation in relation to the design, manufacturing and maintenance of machines, vehicles, structures, and devices in the above-mentioned engineering areas.

 Discipline and Module Intended Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this module, you should be able to:

ILO.1 - Understand the fundamental principles of elementary solid mechanics and basic methods for stress and deformation analysis of a simple solid structure or element.

ILO.2 - Analyse internal stress and strain in solid elements under complex loading scenarios, including tension, compression, shearing, bending, torsion, and stress concentration.

ILO.3 - Gain the ability to analyse problems in terms of strength and deformation in relation to the design, manufacturing and maintenance of simple solid structures.

ILO.4 - Model structures composed of bars and beams and apply appropriate boundary conditions for simple structural problems.

ILO.5 - Understand how and why to use energy methods for structural analysis and perform basic finite element analysis.

ILO.6 - Demonstrate increased abilities in the mathematical analysis of engineering problems.

ILO.7 - Understanding the essentials of material selection in design and manufacturing by making use of the physical inherence of the elastic constants.

ILO.8 - Apply equilibrium and compatibility techniques to unfamiliar problems.

ILO.9 - Effectively work and communicate with others in the tutorial and lab sessions.

ILO.10 - Demonstrate improved critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

• Force, area and stress;
• Basic assumptions in Solid Mechanics;
• Stress analysis;
• Stresses on an inclined plane;
• Shear Stress;
• Principle Stresses;
• Mohr’s Circle in 2D;
• Beam bending;
• Torsional stress in cylindrical shaft;
• Saint-Venant's Principle;
• Displacement and strain;
• Stress-strain relationship, Hooke’s Law in 2D;
• Plane stress and plane strain;
• Types of boundary conditions, symmetrical boundary conditions: 
• Modelling of engineering problems and finding solutions;
• Stress function and energy method;
• Conducting three-point bending flexural test to evaluate the modulus of elasticity in material;
• Performing finite element analysis on simple beam structures and comparing the results to the analytical and experimental outcomes.

N/A

Reassessment will be by a single written exam only worth 100% of the module. For deferred candidates, the mark will be uncapped. For referred candidates, the mark will be capped at 40%.

Reading list for this module: