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Dynamics
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:35:23
Abstract
Dynamics of particles and rigid bodies: Motion of a single particle, motion of systems of particles, 2D and 3D motion of rigid bodies, vibrations
Objective
This course provides Bachelor students of mechanical and civil engineering with fundamental knowledge of the kinematics and dynamics of mechanical systems. By studying the motion of a single particle, of systems of particles and of rigid bodies, we introduce essential concepts such as kinematics, work and energy, equations of motion, and forces and torques. Further topics include the stability of equilibria and vibrations as well as an introduction to the dynamics of deformable bodies. Examples presented in the lectures and weekly exercise sessions help students learn basic techniques that are necessary for advanced courses and work on engineering applications.
Content
1. Motion of a single particle: kinematics (trajectory, velocity, acceleration), forces and torques, active and reaction forces, balance of linear and angular momentum, work-energy balance, conservative systems, equations of motion. 2. Motion of systems of particles: internal and external forces, balance of linear and angular momentum, work-energy balance, rigid systems of particles, particle collisions. 3. Motion of rigid bodies in 2D and 3D: kinematics (angular velocity, velocity and acceleration transfer, instantaneous center and axis of rotation), balance of linear and angular momentum, work-energy balance, angular momentum transport, inertial vs. moving reference frames, apparent forces, Euler equations. 4. Vibrations: Lagrange equations, single-DOF oscillations (natural frequency, free-, damped-, and forced response), multi-DOF oscillations (natural frequencies, eigenmodes, free-, damped-, and forced response). 5. Introduction to waves and vibrations in deformable elastic bodies.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Typed course material will be available. Students are responsible for preparing their own notes in class.
Literature
Typed course material will be available.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 150 minutes
- Aids
- All students are provided with a list of formulas (without explanation). No calculators or other resources are allowed.
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture |
Dynamics
The lectures will start in the 2nd week of the Semester.
The lecturers will communicate the exact lesson times of ONLINE courses.
|
|
4 h weekly |
| exercise |
Dynamics
Groups are selected in myStudies.
The exercises will start in the 2nd week of the Semester:
- Friday 12-14 for Mechanical Engineering BSc
- Friday 14-16 for Civil Engineering BSc
Die genauen Unterrichtszeiten von ONLINE - Veranstaltungen werden von den Dozierenden kommuniziert.
Angesichts der aktuellen Coronazahlen, die verschärften Schutzmassnahmen und um die Durchmischung der Bubbles zu vermeiden, dürfen die Study Centers ab sofort nicht mehr mit Präsenz sondern online angeboten werden.
|
|
2 h weekly |