Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2025-2026

Module ENGI4397: Non-Linear Solid Mechanics 4

Department: Engineering

ENGI4397: Non-Linear Solid Mechanics 4

Type Tied Level 4 Credits 10 Availability Available in 2025/2026 Module Cap None. Location Durham
Tied to H100
Tied to H211
Tied to H212
Tied to H213
Tied to H311
Tied to H312
Tied to H313
Tied to H411
Tied to H412
Tied to H413
Tied to H911
Tied to H912
Tied to H913

Prerequisites

  • ENGI3411

Corequisites

  • As specified in programme regulations.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • As specified in programme regulations.

Aims

  • This module is designed solely for students studying Department of Engineering degree programmes.
  • To provide an overview of non-linear solid mechanics problems.
  • To develop advanced knowledge and understanding of problems involved material and geometric non-linearity and contact and friction.
  • This module will allow graduates to develop skills in solving non-linear problems using numerical and analytical techniques.

Content

  • Fundamentals of large deformation mechanics and plasticity theory.
  • Integration of elasto-plastic constitutive models.
  • Analytical solutions to contact problems.
  • Numerical treatment of contact problems.
  • Fundamentals of frictional and lubrication.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • An appreciation of the limitations on linear analysis and an understanding of the consequences of including geometric and material non-linearity.
  • An understanding of the fundamental components of finite deformation mechanics and elasto-plasticity.
  • An understanding of the fundamental concepts of contact analysis and the critical ability to select an appropriate numerical tool to tackle a specific contact problem.
  • AHEP4 Learning Outcomes: In order to satisfy Professional Engineering Institution (PEI) accreditation requirements the following Accreditation of Higher Education Programmes (AHEP4) Learning Outcomes are assessed within this module:
  • M1. Apply a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems (exam assessed).
Subject-specific Skills:
  • An awareness of current technology, analysis methods and industrial practises along with the ability to apply those methods in novel situations.
  • An in-depth knowledge and understanding of specialised and advanced technical and professional skills, an ability to perform critical assessment and review and an ability to communicate the results of their own work effectively.
Key Skills:
  • Capacity for independent self-learning within the bounds of professional practice.
  • Highly specialised numerical skills appropriate to an engineer.
  • Mathematics relevant to the application of advanced engineering concepts.

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

  • The module content is delivered in lectures and is reinforced by problem sheets, worked examples and short MATLAB scripts, equipping students with the required problem solving capability.
  • Students are encouraged to make use of staff 'Surgeries' (otherwise "Office 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.
  • A single examination covers all of the lecture material. Written timed examinations are appropriate because of the wide range of analytical, in-depth material covered in this module and allow students to demonstrate the ability to solve advanced problems independently.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 20 Weekly 1 hour 20
Surgeries 20 As required, weekly sign-ups available throughout the year Optional attendance as required 10
Revision Classes 1 1 hour 1
Preparation and Reading 69
Total 100

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination Component Weighting: 100%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Online Examination 2 hours 100% No

Formative Assessment:

N/A


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