Course content

Theory of elasticity: Stresses and equilibrium, strains and compatibility, constitutive law, and strain energy. Energy methods: The principle of virtual work, the principle of stationary potential energy, the Rayleigh-Ritz method, and the finite element method. Plate and shell theory. Applications of the Rayleigh-Ritz method to two-dimensional elasticity and plate problems. Strength analysis of two-dimensional structures and plates using the finite element method.

Learning outcome

Knowledge: The candidate should be able to explain the fundamental elements of two-dimensional elasticity and plate theory, and describe how analytical and numerical methods are used in structural analysis.

Skills: The candidate should be able to perform strength analyses of elastic structures using numerical solution methods and assess the results through analytical considerations.

General competence: The candidate should be able to explain and critically discuss different solution methods for structural analysis.

Digital competence: Skilled use of Python and finite element programs for solving linear-elastic problems: modeling, analysis, and visualization of results.

Sustainability competence: The course serves to give the students appropriate skills to design safe and cost-effective structures.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and mandatory exercises. The use of digital tools such as Python and finite element codes is emphasized in the exercises.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises

Recommended previous knowledge

TKT4116 Mechanics 1, TKT4122 Mechanics 2, TKT4132 Mechanics 3, TKT4140 Numerical mechanics, and TMA4110/TMA4115 Calculus 3.

Course materials

Lecture Notes

Credit reductions