Structural Dynamics - 2025 entry

Much of modern engineering involves structures that move dynamically or have parts which move dynamically, e.g. automotive/aerospace structures, gas turbines used to propel aircraft or rotating components in machine tools. Even seemingly static structures such as buildings, bridges and grandstands are subjected to dynamic forces such as earthquakes, wind and human-induced dynamic loads such as walking or jumping.

 

This module will provide you with basic knowledge and understanding how engineering structures respond to dynamic loading and how they can be designed to avoid adverse effects on them relevant to their dynamic behaviour. Particular emphasis will be given to theoretical concepts of single- (SDOF) and multiple-degree-of-freedom (MDOF) systems which form foundations of general structural dynamics in broad areas of mechanical and civil engineering. The module will then make use of these theoretical concepts to analyse specific but common problems in mechanical and civil engineering to illustrate the general approach.

 

This module is suitable for all Engineering students who have taken the prerequisite ENG1002 Engineering Mathematics and Scientific Computing, and ENG2012 Structural Behaviour modules.

Programmes that are accredited by the Engineering Council are required to meet Accreditation of Higher Education  

Programmes (AHEP4) Learning Outcomes. The following Engineering Council AHEP4 Learning Outcomes are covered on this module: 

 

On successful completion of this module you should be able to:  

Module specific skill and knowledge 

1 Comprehend fundamental theory of free and forced vibration of single and multi-degree of freedom systems (C1, M1) 

2 Analyse numerical modelling of dynamics problems (C2, M2) 

3 Experiment using the measurement of structural dynamic properties and performance (C13, M13) 

4 Develop numerical simulation of engineering problems involving structural dynamics (C3, M3) 

5 Ability to measure vibration signals from engineering structures  

6 Ability to interpret and rationalise real-life vibration problems and perform their assessment  

 

Discipline Specific Skill and knowledge 

7 Formulate and analyse complex problems to reach substantiated conclusions. This will involve evaluating available data using first principles of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles, and using engineering judgment to work with information that may be uncertain or incomplete, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed. (C2, M2) 

 

Personal and key transferable skill and knowledge 

8 Communicate effectively on complex engineering matters with technical and non technical audiences (C17 M17) 

Deferrals: Reassessment will be by coursework and/or exam in the deferred element only. For deferred candidates, the module mark will be uncapped. 

 

Referrals: Reassessment will be by a single written exam worth 100% of the module. As it is a referral, the mark will be capped at 40%.