A finite-element stress analysis of a bolted connection in a luggage container under internal blast pressure, extracted from the class term project. (Image by Prof. Raul Radovitzky.)
Highlights of this Course
This course features a wealth of resources, including
practice exams,
problem sets with solutions, and extensive
lecture notes with supporting materials.
» View an older version of this course en Español or em Portugues courtesy of Universia. Please note that since our Spring 2005 publication, the translated version available from Universia may not have the most current content that is available on the MIT OCW site.
Course Description
This course introduces analysis techniques for complex structures and the role of material properties in structural design, failure, and longevity. Students will learn about the energy principles in structural analysis and their applications to statically-indeterminate structures and solid continua. Additionally, the course will examine matrix and finite-element methods of structured analysis including bars, beams, and two-dimensional plane stress elements. Structural materials and their properties will be considered, as will metals and composites. Other topics include modes of structural failure, criteria for yielding and fracture, crack formation and fracture mechanics, and fatigue and design for longevity. Students are expected to apply these concepts to their own structural design projects.
Technical Requirements
Mathematica® software is required to run the .nb files found on this course site.