Mechanics for Engineers

This is an introductory mechanics module designed for engineering students based on the simple applications of Newton's laws. The module provides a fundamental foundation for students who will subsequently study more advanced topics including applied dynamics, mechanics of solids & structures, and mechanics of fluids. Topics studied in detail are related to 2D and 3D Statics, Friction, and Kinematics of a Particle and of a Rigid Body (1D and 2D). The particular topics include the following: (1) Statics: Scalars and vectors; (2) Newton's laws and Law of gravitation; (3) Forces; (4) Free body diagrams; (5) 2D and 3D force systems; (6) Equilibrium in 2D; (7) Equilibrium in 3D; (8) Distributed forces, centres of mass and centroids; (9) Friction; (10) Kinematics in 1D and 2D: Position, velocity and acceleration; (11) Motion in rectilinear and curvilinear coordinate systems; (12) Trusses and cables. All laboratory activities are carried out with due regard to the School's Health and Safety protocols. Students should follow these during all laboratory activities, including wearing a laboratory coat, and relevant PPE when required. Further information is available at https://intranet.ucd.ie/smme/index.html. The laboratory activity of this module will require students to work together in teams and will be based on three selected topics from: o Resultant of static forces and equilibrium of forces; o Friction on an inclined plane; o Compression and tension in trusses; o Rectilinear motion: velocity and acceleration Team Assignment: Teams of students will work together in a concentrated period (3 weeks) on a design & make challenge that relates to various topics covered in lectures in order to enhance their learning opportunities and to develop their engineering skills. They will be required to communicate the results of their efforts through a physical demonstration which is accompanied by a written report, and an optional video presentation. Recommended Text (either of the following are suitable, as per student's choice): o Vector Mechanics for Engineers: Statics & Dynamics, Beer & Johnston, McGraw Hill. o Engineering Mechanics: Statics & Dynamics, Hibbeler, Prentice Hall. o Engineering Mechanics: Statics & Dynamics, Meriam & Kraige, Wiley.