108 Mechanical and Structural Theory

For whom intended  This course is intended for individuals whose primary formal training is not in the field of mechanical or structural engineering. Mechanical and structural considerations are fundamental to almost every technical activity, and all technical personnel have to deal, at least to some extent, with some aspects of mechanical engineering. A basic understanding of mechanical principles is essential to better perform their main function.

Objectives  To help participants to understand basic mechanical and structural concepts and terminology. It is not an in-depth mechanical engineering course but rather a course aimed at individuals who require an intensive review of basic principals, without the assumption of any prior knowledge of the topic. The course is fast paced and as non-mathematical as possible.

Brief Course Description  The course covers basic concepts of mechanical theory, starting with basic mathematics and conversion factors. To fully comprehend sinusoidal and non-sinusoidal waveforms, a basic understanding of complex algebra is required. The instructor reviews this topic as it applies to mechanical technology.

The instructor next introduces the basics of mechanical and structural theory, such as measurement of mass, displacement, acceleration and velocity, before moving into somewhat greater depth on dynamics theory. Single and multiple degree-of-freedom systems are considered, in regard to spring stiffness, dynamic properties of different materials, natural frequency and damping.

The Rayleigh and Dunkerley methods of calculating the first natural frequency of systems are briefly considered, with examples. Forced vibration and loading effects are also included in the dynamics theory section.

Moving on to structural design fundamentals, the instructor addresses the concepts of stress and strain; moment of inertia and the torsional shape factor. Useful formulas are provided for calculating stiffness and stress, also tables for determining moments of inertia and torsional shape factors. The instructor discusses the dynamic characteristics of structural elements such as compression members, flanges and beams. Finally, the course provides useful tables and formulas for the calculation of beam stiffness and resonant frequency, as well as resonances of plates and columns.

Related Courses   TTi Course 310, Mechanical Design for Product Reliability, which is available as an OnDemand Complete Internet Course, contains all the theory contained in this course, plus advanced examples and exercises in applying the theory.

Diploma Programs This may be used as an optional course for any Specialist Diploma Program.

Prerequisites  There are no definite prerequisites. However, this course is aimed toward individuals involved in various technical fields. An understanding of basic algebra will be useful.

Text  Each student will receive 180 days access to the on-line electronic course workbook. Renewals and printed textbooks are available for an additional fee

Course Hours, Certificate and CEUs  Class hours/days for on-site courses can vary from 14-35 hours over 2-5 days as requested by our clients. Upon successful course completion, each participant receives a certificate of completion and one Continuing Education Unit (CEU) for every ten class hours.

Click for a printable course outline (pdf).

Course Outline

Conclusion

Award of Certificates for sucessful completion

Click for a printable course outline (pdf).

Revised 6/7/2018