Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2023-2024 (archived)

Module ENGI2221: Solid Mechanics and Structures 2

Department: Engineering

ENGI2221: Solid Mechanics and Structures 2

Type Tied Level 2 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2023/24 Module Cap Location Durham
Tied to H100
Tied to H103

Prerequisites

  • MATH1551, ENGI1091

Corequisites

  • None

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None

Aims

  • To build knowledge of the mechanics of dynamics and vibration, stress analysis of structures and sections, trusses and frames, and the mechanics of soils.
  • To provide an introduction to finite element methods.

Content

  • Mechanics of Dynamic Systems: Undamped and damped free vibration of single degree of freedom (SDOF) systems; Equivalent stiffness and equivalent mass; SDOF systems under forced vibration, including rotation out of balance; Base excitation (undamped and damped); Response of SDOF systems to transient forcing; 2DOF systems and their forced response; Free vibration of 2DOF systems; Tuned vibration absorbers; Free 2DOF response to initial conditions; Vibration of continuous systems.
  • Mechanics of Static Systems (Stress Analysis): Introduction to thin-walled and thick-walled cylinders; Thick-walled cylinders: Part yield and burst; Compound cylinders; Shear stresses in beams; Sheer centre of sections; Torsion of closed and open thin-walled sections.
  • Mechanics of Static Systems (Trusses and Frames): Finite Element Method for two-dimensional trusses; Continuous beams.
  • Mechanics of Satic Systems (Mechanics of Soils): Stresses in soils; Limit state concepts; Stress discontinuity and rotation of major stresses; Bearing capacity of vertically loaded strip footing.
  • Laboratories and data analysis

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • At the end of the year the student should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the theory and application of engineering mechanics.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Selection and application of appropriate analysis techniques
  • Use of matrix algebra for problems in structural systems under static and dynamic loads
  • Observation and recording of experimental data
  • Preparation of technical reports
  • The competent and safe use of laboratory equipment
Key Skills:
  • Numerical skills
  • Analytical skills
  • Time and resource management

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • The courses in mechanics are covered in lectures which are reinforced by regular problem sheets leading to the required problem solving capability.
  • The topics covered in this module are analytical by nature and are assessed most effectively by timed, written examination which enables each student to demonstrate an ability to analyse and solve new problems.
  • Students complete a technical report on a topic in mechanics related to the laboratory programme.
  • The laboratory programme also provides formative, hands-on experience in the subject area of mechanics.
  • Students are able to make use of staff 'Tutorial Hours' to discuss any aspect of the module with teaching staff on a one-to-one basis. These are sign-up sessions available for up to one hour per week.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 42 2 per week 1 hour 42
Tutorial Hours As required Weekly sign up sessions up to 1 hour 8
Laboratories 3 1st and 2nd term 3 hours 9
Formative exercises and self study 141
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Written Examination Component Weighting: 80%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Written Examination 2 hours 100%
Component: Coursework Component Weighting: 20%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Assignment 100%

Formative Assessment:

Laboratories, Problem Sheets


Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University