Structural Mechanics

Undergraduate | 2026

Course page banner
area/catalogue icon
Area/Catalogue
ENGC X303
Course ID icon
Course ID
206516
Level of study
Level of study
Undergraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course level icon
Course level
3
Study abroad and student exchange icon
Inbound study abroad and exchange
Inbound study abroad and exchange
The fee you pay will depend on the number and type of courses you study.
Yes
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
Yes
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
Yes
alt
Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

Course overview

This course introduces students to advanced techniques of structural mechanics, which are essential for analysing complex statically indeterminate structures ranging from beams, trusses and frames. In addition to the force-based method such as unit load method, the course introduces the displacement-based method such as slope deflection method that will be the initial foundation of a computer-based analysis technique. The course also covers special topics such as analysis of arches and cables, influence line diagram of bridge girders due to moving wheel loads, and plastic methods of analysis for estimating collapse loads of beams and frames.

Course learning outcomes

  • Calculate deflection of statically determinate and indeterminate beams and trusses using energy based force methods – Castigliano’s method and unit load method
  • Calculate deflection of beams and frames using a displacement method – Slope deflection method
  • Produce influence line diagram for bridge girders due to moving loads (single and multiple point loads, distributed loads)
  • Analyse cables (under point and distributed loads) and arches (with or without internal hinges)
  • Calculate ultimate collapse load of beams, and frames (plastic hinge based plastic analysis), as well as slabs (yield line method)

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A