You will learn the concepts related to and the theories behind the stress and deformation analysis of mechanical and structural elements through a series of online materials, followed by interactive problem solving lecture sessions, practical design seminars and finite element analysis (FEA) workshop sessions. During the design and FEA sessions, you will learn and practice modelling and analysis of typical and complex mechanical and structural systems using a commercial FEA package. You will employ these skills together with analytical stress and deformation analyses towards designing a structural system for strength, stiffness and stability. You will be assessed formally by weekly online quizzes and problem submissions, a group design assignment and a final examination. Lecture, seminar and workshop sessions will offer you great learning opportunity in which you will receive feedback on your progress through discussions with tutors.

You will learn theory and key concepts through online materials and lectures. Seminars and workshops will provide focused skill-development tasks to ensure you can meet the learning outcomes of the module. Direct contact with the tutors will provide you with direct support both in class and through the eLearning portal. In addition our open door approach will offer you the opportunity to develop professional methods of engaging with support which will assist you as you progress in your career as an engineer.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

You will be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding:

MLO1 Knowledge of stress and deformation analysis of simple mechanical and structural systems using analytical and numerical methods.
MLO2 Apply theoretical knowledge to the structural analysis of simple engineering systems.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:

MLO3 Evaluate and compare theoretical and computational approaches to structural analysis.
MLO4 Design and analyse a complex structural system for deformation and stress using analytical and computational methods.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):

MLO5 Increase proficiency in teamwork, communication and time management to develop into a practicing engineer.

Summative Assessments

• Coursework – Individual Portfolio (15%)
An Individual portfolio of work will assess MLO 1. The portfolio will consist of weekly online quizzes and problem submissions. Feedback will be provided through the eLP.

• Coursework - Group Assignment (25%)
A group design assignment will assess MLOs 4 and 5. You will receive a feedback sheet with marks and comments on each task and sub-tasks.

• Examination (60%)
A closed book examination will assess MLOs 2 and 3. Written feedback will be given on your exam script.

Formative Assessments

• You will be assessed on all learning outcomes during lecture, seminar and workshop sessions. Discussion with tutors and reflection on your performance will allow you to continuously monitor your performance and feed this forward for improvement.

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This module considers the design and analysis of mechanical and structural systems for strength, stability and stiffness. It aims to apply design and analysis methods in solving complex mechanical and structural problems using analytical approaches and numerical techniques such as finite element analysis. A strong background in analytical and numerical analysis of mechanical and structural systems offers a good grounding for progression through the programme develops your understanding to facilitate further study and enhance your key employability skills.