Aims and Fit of Module

To provide awareness and understanding of the principles of solid mechanics applied to engineering structures. In particular, the behaviour and types of failure of simple elastic systems and structural members used throughout civil engineering.

Learning outcomes

A. Apply solid mechanics principles to statically determinate and indeterminate structural elements such as trusses, beams, columns, and frames.


B. Analyse a given structure to determine the support reactions, bending moments, shear forces, bending and shear stresses, deflections, rotations and strain energy.

C. Predict the structural behaviour and failure of engineering structural systems by applying different methods and techniques used to analyse the structure.

D. Carry out laboratory experimental work using test, measurement equipment and software analysis techniques to collect and analyse data.

Method of teaching and learning

The material in this module is delivered through a combination of formal lectures, tutorials and practical sessions.