Study information

Linear Systems and Structural Analysis - entry

MODULE TITLELinear Systems and Structural Analysis CREDIT VALUE15
MODULE CODEECMM149 MODULE CONVENERDr Prakash Kripakaran (Coordinator)
DURATION: TERM 1 2 3
DURATION: WEEKS 3
Number of Students Taking Module (anticipated) 20
DESCRIPTION - summary of the module content

This module provides the mathematical knowledge and tools required to model and analyse the behaviour of linear structural systems. It will cover the fundamentals of linear systems theory and related mathematical topics such as matrix algebra and signal analysis, alongside an introduction to MATLAB programming. You will also understand the basic concepts of linear structural analysis, and learn to apply these concepts to structural analysis of beams, trusses and frames, while being aware of their strengths and limitations in the context of engineering design.

AIMS - intentions of the module

The purpose of the module is to equip you with the fundamental structural engineering concepts and mathematical skills required for analysing the behaviour of full-scale civil structures. Its content will serve as a foundation towards learning the more sophisticated mechanics and mathematical concepts required to understand more complex phenomena in real-life structures (e.g. dynamics). Its specific aims are to cover the following topics.

  • MATLAB programming appropriate for an intermediate level user
  • Linear algebra e.g. matrix computation
  • Signal analysis e.g. Fourier analysis, frequency response function
  • Static and kinematic indeterminacy of structures
  • Structural analysis techniques – e.g. slope-deflection method, virtual work
  • Matrix methods for structural analysis – e.g. stiffness method
INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILOs) (see assessment section below for how ILOs will be assessed)

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

Module Specific Skills and Knowledge

1. Perform mathematical operations required for analysis of linear systems
2. Write programs in MATLAB that aid in the analysis of linear systems
3. Apply the matrix methods of analysis to 2D truss and frame structures

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge

4. Use your mathematical skills to evaluate the properties of linear systems
5. Apply basic structural analysis techniques for evaluating the behaviour of linear structural systems
6. Use learnt engineering concepts for numerical analysis of truss and frame structures

Personal and Key Transferable / Employment Skills and Knowledge

7. Explain concepts of linear systems theory and related mathematical concepts from first principles
8. Use conceptual understanding of analysis techniques to model and analyse the behaviour of simple structural systems

 

SYLLABUS PLAN - summary of the structure and academic content of the module

Linear Systems

  • Introduction to systems and signals
  • Introduction to MATLAB
  • Linear algebra
  • Continuous systems
  • Fourier analysis
  • Frequency response functions

Statics and Linear Elastic Analysis

  • Review of static determinacy
  • Qualitative structural analysis
  • Deflection of beams
  • Moment-curvature relationship
  • Slope deflection method
  • Virtual work
  • Stiffness matrix method
LEARNING AND TEACHING
LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS (given in hours of study time)
Scheduled Learning & Teaching Activities 30 Guided Independent Study 120 Placement / Study Abroad 0
DETAILS OF LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS
Category Hours of study time Description
Scheduled Learning & Teaching activities 20 Lectures involving both theoretical aspects as well as examples showing application of taught techniques on various problems
Scheduled Learning & Teaching activities 10 Tutorials involving hands-on problem-solving activities, ably supported by postgraduate students
Guided independent study 120 Reading list, lecture notes, etc.; Sample problem sheets; Material will made available for online access through ELE.

 

ASSESSMENT
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT - for feedback and development purposes; does not count towards module grade
Form of Assessment Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
There will be opportunities to reflect on and review work undertaken towards assessed Coursework     Discussion within Tutorials
       
       
       
       

 

SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT (% of credit)
Coursework 30 Written Exams 70 Practical Exams 0
DETAILS OF SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Form of Assessment % of Credit Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
Coursework 1 15 3 hours 1-3,5,6,7,8 Marked and returned
Coursework 2 15 3 hours 4,6,7,8 Marked and returned
Examination 70 2 hours 1-8 Mark returned
         
         

 

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
As above Examination 1-8 Ref/def period
       
       

 

RE-ASSESSMENT NOTES

All referred/deferred assessments will be by Written Exam.

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

Basic reading:

 

ELE: http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/

 

Web based and Electronic Resources:

 

Other Resources:

 

Reading list for this module:

Type Author Title Edition Publisher Year ISBN
Set Smith, S.W. The scientist and engineer's guide to digital signal processing 1997-2011 California technical publishing 1997
Set Williams MS and Todd DJ Structures: Theory and Analysis Palgrave Macmillan 2000 9780333677605.
CREDIT VALUE 15 ECTS VALUE 7.5
PRE-REQUISITE MODULES None
CO-REQUISITE MODULES None
NQF LEVEL (FHEQ) 7 AVAILABLE AS DISTANCE LEARNING No
ORIGIN DATE Tuesday 7th October 2014 LAST REVISION DATE Thursday 28th May 2015
KEY WORDS SEARCH Structural mechanics, linear algebra, fourier transform, stiffness matrix, frequency response, determinacy virtual work

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