Mechanical Dynamics (518H3)

15 credits, Level 7 (Masters)

Autumn teaching

Topics include:

• state space modelling of dynamic systems
• self-excited vibration and instability
• various non-linear phenomena
• applications of the Finite-Element Method in dynamics
• the Rayleigh-Ritz method
• linear model reduction techniques
• MDOF models of linear damping
• the effect of damping on natural frequencies and mode shapes
• forced vibration of general linear MDOF systems
• time and frequency domain analysis, solution via DFT
• review of probability theory and the normal distribution
• introduction to stochastic processes, correlation functions, and power spectral densities
• random vibration analysis of linear dynamic systems
• international standards on machine vibration levels.

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 30 hours of contact time and about 120 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.