Engineering methods

This unit develops methods for analysing complex problems. The basics of statics and material properties are introduced and used to analyse structures such as beams, cantilevers and truss sections. This knowledge is used to design, analyse, build and test a structural component. Simplifications are implicit in the methods used in this analysis. These simplifications will be examined carefully and scrutinised in a broader cross-disciplinary context through problems related to the system being designed. The methods considered will include: the use of simplifications, assumptions, constraints, boundary conditions and levels of required precision.

The outcome of the structural analysis and testing will be compared and the suitability of the simplifications used will be scrutinised. You will gain knowledge about the methods engineers use to address complex problems across disciplines. Alongside this “engineering thinking”, you will also gain insight into the role of different specialisations of engineering in society. Communication and teamwork skills will be developed through teamwork tasks.