This course is designed to expand your knowledge and skills in the field of linear and non-linear mechanics of solids and its application to structural analysis, machine design and material processing. The influence of non-linearity on the behaviour of structures will be addressed. You will be equipped with essential analytical skills that have a particular bearing on your professional practice as a mechanical engineer. On completion of this course you should have sufficient knowledge of the mechanics of solids to enable you to solve advanced practical problems.

The course will specifically address the following topics: Tensor algebra, 3D stress and strain tensors, 3D stress and strain transformation and principal stresses and strains, hydrostatic and deviatoric stress components, their significance and effect on distortion, conditions of plane stress and plane strain, equilibrium equations, compatibility equations, elastic behaviour, plastic behaviour including yield criteria and flow rules, the concepts of equivalent stress and equivalent plastic strain, and applications of plasticity e.g. beam bending, buckling and thick-walled cylinders. These topics are important for mechanical design applications and also finite element non-linear analysis.