Course syllabus for Structural mechanics

Course syllabus adopted 2024-02-13 by Head of Programme (or corresponding).

Overview

  • Swedish nameStrukturmekanik
  • CodeTME187
  • Credits7.5 Credits
  • OwnerTKATK
  • Education cycleFirst-cycle
  • Main field of studyArchitecture and Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering
  • DepartmentINDUSTRIAL AND MATERIALS SCIENCE
  • GradingTH - Pass with distinction (5), Pass with credit (4), Pass (3), Fail

Course round 1

  • Teaching language Swedish
  • Application code 46130
  • Open for exchange studentsNo

Credit distribution

0123 Written and oral assignments 2.5 c
Grading: UG
0 c2.5 c0 c0 c0 c0 c
0223 Examination 5 c
Grading: TH
0 c5 c0 c0 c0 c0 c
  • 17 Jan 2025 am J
  • 16 Apr 2025 am J
  • 28 Aug 2025 am J

In programmes

Examiner

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Eligibility

General entry requirements for bachelor's level (first cycle)
Applicants enrolled in a programme at Chalmers where the course is included in the study programme are exempted from fulfilling the requirements above.

Specific entry requirements

The same as for the programme that owns the course.
Applicants enrolled in a programme at Chalmers where the course is included in the study programme are exempted from fulfilling the requirements above.

Course specific prerequisites

  • Introductory course in calculus
  • Linear algebra
  • Computational mathematics
  • Mechanics
  • Solid mechanics

Or equivalent courses.

Recommended courses:

  • Sound and vibrations
  • Series and derivatives in several variables
  • Computational mathematics, second course

Or equivalent courses.

Aim

The aim of the course is:
- to give basic knowledge of matrix formulated computational methods for two- and three-dimensional trusses and frames.
- to train the skill of choosing one for the task suitable computational model and to perform linear as well as non-linear analysis.
- to make the generality of the matrix formulated methods visible by introducing one-dimensional potential problems as heat conduction and diffusion.

Learning outcomes (after completion of the course the student should be able to)

- derive the matrix formulated equations for: 2D and 3D spring-, truss-, and frame systems, based on spring and bar action, and beam action including torsion; elastic supports; geometrical and material non-linearities,
- formulate relevant computational models for systems containing 2D and 3D springs, bars and beams, symmetry, internal joints, constraints, static condensation, elastic spring support, and geometrical and to some extent material nonlinearity,
- use Calfem/Matlab as computational tool
- describe structural action in a comprehensive manner and sketch section force diagrams without counting
- critically judge computational models and results
- formulate computational models for 1D potential problem

Content

Matrix algebra. Discrete systems. Bars and trusses. Beams and frames. Computational modelling at the system level. Three dimensional trusses and frames. One dimensional flow problems. Elastic supports. Geometrical non-linear problems and instability. Material non-linear problems.

Organisation

Lectures with theory and belonging applications.
Exercises with problem solving.
Compulsory assignments handed out each week.
A major compulsory seminar assignment is included.

Literature

Olsson K.-G. and Dahlblom O., Structural Mechanics: Modelling and Analysis of Frames and Trusses, Wiley, 2016.
CALFEM ver 3.4 - A finite element toolbox, Studentlitteratur, 2004.

Examination including compulsory elements

Written exam. Fulfilled assignments and major task.

The course examiner may assess individual students in other ways than what is stated above if there are special reasons for doing so, for example if a student has a decision from Chalmers on educational support due to disability.