Study information

Fundamentals of Mechanics - 2021 entry

MODULE TITLEFundamentals of Mechanics CREDIT VALUE15
MODULE CODEENG1007 MODULE CONVENERDr Sean Carroll (Coordinator)
DURATION: TERM 1 2 3
DURATION: WEEKS 11 11
Number of Students Taking Module (anticipated)
DESCRIPTION - summary of the module content
This module is one of three engineering fundamentals modules that will introduce engineering concepts and theory across the areas of Mechanics, Materials and Electronics and will provide you with a solid grounding on which to build in later modules. In this module we focus on classical mechanics. At the heart of any engineering analysis is the need to understand an object’s response to its environment, whether it’s the forces imparted by traffic as it traverses a bridge or the forces of lift that allow an aircraft to fly. None of this analysis is possible without first understanding classical mechanics. In this module you will cover foundational mechanics theory. 
 
You will work through new topics each week with the aid of extensive learning materials, lectures, tutorials and experimental activities. You will undertake numerous elements of online continuous assessment throughout the module which will allow you to evaluate your understanding of the material and diagnose areas that require further attention. Continuous assessments provide ongoing feedback and support you to actively manage your learning.
 
The module is taught using a flipped learning methodology. Each week, you will review background materials and complete question sheets in preparation for tutorial sessions with your lecturers. A flipped learning methodology allows you to extract more benefit from guided tutorials, but also requires more upfront work by you in preparation.
AIMS - intentions of the module

This module aims to equip you with fundamental knowledge and skills in Mechanics. It also consolidates a common knowledge base, and begins the development of a learning methodology appropriate to a professional engineer. Through both continuous assessment and the end of year exams, the module encourages you to actively manage your own learning and seeks to develop your ability to communicate your understanding of engineering theory and concepts in a professional manner.

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILOs) (see assessment section below for how ILOs will be assessed)
ILO #1: demonstrate knowledge of the principles of statics and dynamics [SM1p, EA1p, EA2p] 
ILO #2: carry out kinematic and kinetic analyses on simple mechanical systems [EA1p, EA2p]
ILO #3: solve basic problems in statics and dynamics, using free body diagrams, force balance equations, Newton's laws of motion, and energy methods [EA1p, EA2p] 
ILO #4: demonstrate knowledge of shear forces and bending moments and construct shear force and bending moment diagrams for simply supported beams [EA2p] 
ILO #5: use the knowledge of hydro-statics perform analyses of submerged and semi-submerged bodies [EA1p, EA2p]
ILO #6: use knowledge of hydro-dynamics to perform analyses of fluids on motion [EA1p, EA2p]
ILO #7: utilise laboratory equipment correctly and safely, to make simple measurements [EP2p, EP3p] 
ILO #8: record and interpret the results of laboratory experiments [EP3p]
ILO #9: apply theoretical models to practical problems [EA1p, EA2p] 
ILO #10: write clear accounts of laboratory experiments [D6p]
ILO #11: carry out directed private study using textbooks, and other provided resources [G2p]
ILO #12: set out calculations demonstrating solution of problems using theoretical models [EA2p, D6p]
 

 

SYLLABUS PLAN - summary of the structure and academic content of the module
Introduction to Statics
  • Forces and static equilibrium
  • Equilibrium equations 
  • Free body diagrams 
  • Truss Analysis: Method of Joints 
  • Truss Analysis: Method of Sections
 
Shear Forces and Bending Moments
  • Introduction to shear forces and bending moments 
  • Shear forces and bending moments in statically determinate beams and frames
  • Principle of superposition
 
Introduction to torsion
  • Torsion in circular bars
  • Nonuniform torsion
Hydrostatics
  • Pressure and head
  • Forces on submerged bodies and buoyancy
 
Introduction to Dynamics
  • Straight line and curvilinear motion
  • Force, mass and acceleration
  • Momentum methods
 
Hydrodynamics
  • Fluid Flow and Types
  • Flow Continuity and Momentum Equations
  • Energy Equation
  • Applications of Energy Equation
  • Measurement Techniques
  • Dimensional analysis (incl. Reynolds and Froude number)
LEARNING AND TEACHING
LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS (given in hours of study time)
Scheduled Learning & Teaching Activities 44 Guided Independent Study 106 Placement / Study Abroad 0
DETAILS OF LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS
The module is delivered through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous lectures and tutorials. 
 
ASSESSMENT
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT - for feedback and development purposes; does not count towards module grade

None

SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT (% of credit)
Coursework 40 Written Exams 60 Practical Exams 0
DETAILS OF SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Form of Assessment % of Credit Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
Written exam 60 2 hours 1-6, 12 Cohort level feedback. Individual students can request feedback after exam
Coursework – Truss Analysis Lab Report 10 8 hours 7-10, 12 Marked coursework returned with feedback
Coursework – Continuous assessment worksheets 20 8 hours 1-5, 11 Online worksheets with immediate feedback
Coursework – Fluid dynamics experiment and lab report 10 8 hours 6-10. 12 Marked coursework returned with feedback
         

 

DETAILS OF RE-ASSESSMENT (where required by referral or deferral)
Original Form of Assessment Form of Re-assessment ILOs Re-assessed Time Scale for Re-assessment
All above Written Exam (100%) All August Ref/Def Period
       
       

 

RE-ASSESSMENT NOTES
If a module is normally assessed entirely by coursework, all referred/deferred assessments will normally be by assignment.
 
If a module is normally assessed by examination or examination plus coursework, referred and deferred assessment will normally be by examination. For referrals, only the examination will count, a mark of 40% being awarded if the examination is passed. For deferrals, candidates will be awarded the higher of the deferred examination mark or the deferred examination mark combined with the original coursework mark.
RESOURCES
INDICATIVE LEARNING RESOURCES - The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of
information that you are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Convener

Reading list for this module:

Type Author Title Edition Publisher Year ISBN
Set Douglas, J. F., J.M. Gasiorek & J.A. Swaffield Fluid Mechanics 0 582 41476 8
Set Gere, James M. Mechanics of Materials 0 7487 6675 8
Set Hulse, R. & J. Cain Structural Mechanics 0 333 80457 0
Set Megson, T. H. G. Structural and Stress Analysis 0 340 63196 1
CREDIT VALUE 15 ECTS VALUE 7.5
PRE-REQUISITE MODULES None
CO-REQUISITE MODULES None
NQF LEVEL (FHEQ) 4 AVAILABLE AS DISTANCE LEARNING No
ORIGIN DATE Wednesday 23rd June 2021 LAST REVISION DATE Monday 9th August 2021
KEY WORDS SEARCH None Defined

Please note that all modules are subject to change, please get in touch if you have any questions about this module.