Mechanical Structures

Basic knowledge of Applied Mechanics and Strength of Materials.

The curricular unit adopts student-centred methodologies, combining theoretical presentation, laboratory practice, and the development of transversal skills:

1. Expository and Interactive Approach

Theoretical and theoretical-practical classes use a structured presentation of the content, complemented by application examples.

Active student participation is encouraged through guided problem-solving and classroom discussion.

2. Experimental Component

Laboratory classes enable the practical application of concepts through the execution of experimental work involving real structural elements.

Students participate in the setup, execution, and analysis of experiments, developing observation and result interpretation skills.

3. Teamwork and Cooperation

Practical work is carried out in groups, encouraging the sharing of information, the division of tasks, and the joint development of technical solutions.

4. Oral and Written Communication

Students present and discuss their work orally, developing technical communication and argumentation skills.

Experimental and analytical results are systematised in technical reports, with critical analysis. 

5. Autonomy, Responsibility, and Decision-Making

Students manage activities and resources, taking responsibility for results. The ability to solve complex problems based on scientific and technological foundations, applying critical thinking and informed decision-making, is encouraged.

The Mechanical Structures course is composed of three interconnected components: theoretical, theoretical/practical, and laboratory. Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. Apply fundamental concepts of stresses and strains in the design and verification of structural elements subjected to combined stresses;

2. Calculate stress and deformation states, including principal and maximum shear stresses, applying design criteria, namely the Tresca and von Mises criteria 

3. Understand the principles of experimental stress analysis using strain gauges and interpret experimental results obtained on structural elements;

4. Use energy methods to calculate displacements and analyse structures under static and impact loads, as well as assess stability and predict buckling;

5. Work effectively in a team, prepare clear and accurate reports, and communicate results clearly, both written and oral, demonstrating interpersonal and collaborative skills.

1. Fundamental Concepts in Structural Components

Unit systems. Concept and types of force, stress and strain. Structural element shapes. Hypotheses and steps in the analysis of a structure. Design principles. Standardization applicable to mechanical structures and their importance. Combined solicitations. Analysis of structural elements subjected to combined solicitations.

2. Stress and strain analysis

Stress Plane State. Main Stresses and Maximum Shear Stress. Generalized Hooke’s law. Strain plane state. Applications of the plane stress state: Stresses in Reservoirs Under Pressure. Study of mechanical structures subjected to combined solicitations. Structural design according to Tresca and von-Mises criteria. Experimental stress analysis: Basic concepts and principles of operation. Types of strain gauges. Extensometric Rosette. Specifications and selection of strain gauges. Gluing and assembly techniques for strain gauges. Application examples.

3. Energetic Methods

General equation of the deformation potential energy. Castigliano’s theorem. Study of structures subjected to impact loads.

4. Buckling

Stability of Structures. Euler’s formula for articulated columns. Generalization of the Euler formula. Eccentric Loads. Application examples.

The course offers students the option of obtaining approval through two assessment systems: a) Continuous and Periodic Assessment; b) Assessment by Final Exam.

The continuous assessment system is the most appropriate for the course's objectives and is recommended for students. The final exam assessment system is intended for students who believe they are unable to attend most classes, such as students with work-student status or equivalent.

By the second week of classes, students can choose the assessment system they wish to follow in the course.

a) Continuous and Periodic Assessment

Under the continuous and periodic assessment system, the course incorporates the following components:

Experimental Work (60%)

Execution of experimental projects involving research, experimentation, critical analysis, and presentation through writing and presentation using texts and visual media. To be completed in groups, the projects may involve one or more structural components and will be completed during class.

Assessment Test (40%)

Completion of one assessment test, in the form of case studies, to be completed during classes.

Requirements for Passing the Course through Continuous and Periodic Assessment

1. To pass the course through continuous and periodic assessment, a minimum score of 35% on the assessment tests is required.

2. To pass the course through continuous and periodic assessment, a minimum score of 35% on the experimental projects is required.

3. To pass the course through continuous and periodic assessment, attendance at 75% of the total classes taught is required.

Students who do not meet all these requirements will automatically be evaluated by exam.

b) Final Exam Assessment

Under the final exam assessment system, a written exam will be given on the dates specified in the calendar and will be worth 20 points. The exam will be structured into a theoretical and a theoretical-practical (case study) section.

NAO