CIV2206 · Structural mechanics

Overview

This unit involves the study of various loadings (axial force, moment, shear force, toque) as well as the resulting stresses and strains that occur in engineering structures. It builds on aspects taught in the level 1 unit, ENG1011. Topics covered include bending moment diagrams of determinate and indeterminate beam and frame systems, the combination of bi-axial bending and axial stresses (including those resulting from thermal loading); partial and fully plastic section moment capacities; torsion, shear stress and shear flow in beams; and the calculation of reactions and deflections in both determinate and indeterminate systems using both compatibility and the energy method. The theory of elasticity is introduced, covering: the transformation of stress and strain and the calculation of principal and maximum shear stresses and strains; the constitutive relationship between elastic stress-strain behaviour; Mohr's circle; and failure criterion with specific reference to pressure vessels.

Areas of study: E3001 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Specialisation: Civil engineering E6011 Master of Professional Engineering - Specialisation: Civil engineering Minor: Civil engineering

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Continuous assessment: 50% Final assessment: 50% This unit contains threshold hurdle requirements that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Analyse structural behaviour (calculating reactions and bending moment diagrams and deflected shapes) of simple determinate and indeterminate beam and frame systems using qualitative and quantitative methods.
2. Identify and determine elastic normal stresses, shearing stresses and shear flow in simple structures as a result of external (including thermal) loading producing internal actions of axial force, bending, torsion and shear.
3. Determine the partial plastic and fully plastic section moment capacities of both symmetrical and asymmetrical steel sections.
4. Determine deflections in linearly elastic determinate systems.
5. Determine stresses and strains (and their relationship) in two dimensions utilising the concepts of principal stress and Mohr's circle, and select and use appropriate failure theories for engineering materials.
6. Formulate technical reports and communicate effectively in team assignments, interpreting and analysing experimental data, utilising basic analysis software packages and relating results to the theory taught.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.