Syllabus

AEM 4581

Mechanics and Thermodynamics of Solids

3 Credits

 

Catalog Description:

 

Modern topics in solid and continuum mechanics.  Continuum mechanics in one dimension: kinematics, balances of mass, momentum and energy, constitutive theory.   Applications to linear and nonlinear wave propagation, and heat conduction in bars.  Strings. Euler-Bernoulli theory of bending in beams.  Elementary kinematics of three-dimensional deformations and stress: principle strains and stresses. Various topics in solid mechanics typically chosen from: fracture mechanics, structural stability, vibrations, mechanical behavior of thin films and layered media, behavior of smart materials, mechanics of phase transformations, three-dimensional elastic wave propagation, introductory elasticity, viscoelasticity, plasticity.

 

Course Web Address:

 

http://www.aem.umn.edu/courses/aem4581/

 

Prerequisites by Topic:

 

1. Linear Algebra and Differential equations (Math 2373)
2. Multivariable Calculus (Math 2374)
3. Deformable Body Mechanics (AEM 3031)

 

Text:

 

(none)

 

Format of Course:

 

3 hours of lecture per week

 

Computer Usage:

 

(none)

 

Course Objectives:

 

The objectives of this course are to introduce students to continuum mechanics, elasticity theory and solid mechanics. The course is intended for students who are thinking about advanced studies in engineering.

 

Course Outcomes:

 

Students who successfully complete the course will demonstrate the following outcomes by tests and homework:

1. An understanding of continuum mechanics in one spatial dimension, including kinematics, balances of mass, momentum and energy, jump conditions, constitutive theory
2. An understanding of the differences between linear elasticity and nonlinear elasticity
3. A knowledge of different constitutive equations

 

Relationship of course to program objectives:

 

The course develops the mathematical skills needed for students who are interested in advanced study in engineering or other fields

 

Relationship of course to program outcomes:

 

The course provides the following outcomes:

 

1. Apply mathematics
2. Identify engineering problems

 

Course Outline:

 

Lecture (Hrs, approx.)	Topics
10	One dimensional continuum mechanics
4	Strings and rods
8	Three dimensional deformations
(balance)	Topics from solid mechanics

 

Outcome Measurement:

 

Outcomes will be measured through homework and exams.

 

Student Survey Questions:

 

This course improved by ability to do the following:

 

1.      Apply knowledge of math, science and engineering.

2.      Identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems.

 

Please answer the following questions regarding the course:

 

3.      The level of work required in the course was appropriate for the credit given.

4.      My background in mathematics and deformable body mechanics was adequate.

 

In this course, I acquired the following:

 

5.      An understanding of continuum mechanics in one dimension

6.      An ability to formulate the balances of mass, momentum and energy.

7.      An understanding of how constitutive equations enter continuum mechanics.

8.      An ability to formulate one-dimensional elasticity problems.

9.      An  understanding of string, rod and beam theories

10.  An introduction to modern solid mechanics topics.

 

Last modified:

 

2007-5-15