The aim of this module is to give learners a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of mechanics of statics and dynamics as well as an introduction to materials (metals).
Statics: Introduction & vectors, force systems and equilibrium, structures, friction, distributed forces - types of beams, loading & shear force & bending moment diagrams, mass moments of inertia, virtual work.
Dynamics: Introduction. Kinematics of Particles: projectile motion, relative motion, constrained motion. Kinetics of Particles: force, mass & acceleration - motion on a slope; work & energy - work-energy method; impulse and momentum. Kinematics of Rigid Bodies: rotation; relative velocity. Kinetics of Rigid Bodies: force, mass & acceleration - fixed axis rotation. Introduction to vibration.
Materials: Introduction to metallic crystal structures and phase diagrams. Definition of important ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Mechanical and physical properties of metals. Destructive tests including: tensile testing (Hook's law, Young's modulus, rigidity, stress and strain - introduction to compressive & shear stresses), impact testing and hardness testing. Non-destructive tests including: visual inspection, visual inspection using dye-penetrants, ultrasonic testing, eddy-current testing, magnetic testing and radiography.
Mechanical Engineering Design: Introduction to design, dealing with variability in material properties, factor of safety and design codes. Examples of relevant ISO standards and societies & organisations that have established specifications for standards & safety or design codes.
