Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

Learning objectives

Knowledge

• Have gained an in-depth understanding of theoretical and experimental determination of the stress and deformation states occurring in a structural element when carrying a mechanical load.
• Have attained an understanding for methods of analysis and experimental methods and the characteristics of their applications and limitations

Skills

• Be able to set up the governing equations for the theory of elasticity.
• Be able to demonstrate the properties of the strain and stress tensors.
• Be able to account for the implementation and practical use of the analytical, numerical, and experimental methods applied in the project.
• Be able to give a critical evaluation of the methods applied for stress and deformation analyses and the results obtained.
• Be able to use correct terminology.
• Be able to compare theoretical and experimental results.
• Be able to critically evaluate applied methods and their results.

Competences

• Be able to analyze a load carrying element on the basis of model considerations, using continuum mechanics, and by applying numerical methods including the finite element method.
• Be able to investigate the behavior of a structural element under mechanical loading with experimental techniques such as strain gauges and digital image measurement techniques.
• Be able to compare theoretical and experimental results carefully, and critically evaluate the methods applied and the results obtained.
• Be able to apply the background and the insight obtained, on intuitive design optimization, and suggest geometrical changes or a redesign including change of material.

Type of instruction

The module is carried out as group-based problem-oriented project work. The group work is carried out as an independent work process in which the students themselves organize and coordinate their workload in collaboration with a supervisor. The project is carried out in groups with normally no more than 6 members.

Extent and expected workload

Since it is a 15 ECTS course module the expected workload is 450 hours for the student.

Exam

Exams