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151-0524-00L 4 Credits BSC , MSC , NDS D-HEST , D-MAVT , D-PHYS , D-ITET

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Continuum Mechanics I

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Edoardo Mazza, Dr. Alexander Edmund Ehret

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:48:29

Abstract

The lecture deals with constitutive models that are relevant for design and calculation of structures. These include anisotropic linear elasticity, linear viscoelasticity, plasticity, viscoplasticity. Homogenization theories and laminate theory are presented. Theoretical models are complemented by examples of engineering applications and experiments.

Objective

Basic theories for solving continuum mechanics problems of engineering applications, with particular attention to material models.

Content

Anisotropic elasticity, Linear elastic and linear viscous material behavior, Viscoelasticity, Micro-macro modelling, Laminate theory, Plasticity, Viscoplasticity, Examples of engineering applications, Comparison with experiments.

Resources

Lecture Notes

yes

General Information

Language: English
Levels: BSC , MSC , NDS
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: session examination
Mode: written 60 minutes
Aids: None

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture	Continuum Mechanics I	Fri 08:15-10:00 (HG D 5.2)	2 h weekly
exercise	Continuum Mechanics I Exercises start in the second week of the semester.	Wed 12:15-13:00 (HG E 1.1)	1 h weekly

Offered In

Mechanical Engineering Bachelor
- 5. Semester
  - Focus Specialization
    - Engineering for Health (Focus Coordinator: Prof. Bradley Nelson)
    - Design, Mechanics and Materials (Focus Coordinator: Prof. Kristina Shea In order to achieve the required 20 credit points for the Focus Specialization Design, Mechanics and Material you are free to choose any of the courses offered within the focus and are encouraged to select among those recommended. If you wish to take one of the Master level courses, you must get approval from the lecturer.)
Mechanical Engineering Master
- Core Courses
  - Mechanics, Materials, Structures (The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor.)
Biomedical Engineering Master
- Track Courses
  - Biomechanics
    - Recommended Elective Courses (These courses are particularly recommended for the Biomechanics track. Please consult your track advisor if you wish to select other subjects.)
Micro- and Nanosystems Master
- Core Courses
  - Material, Surfaces and Properties
MAS in Medical Physics
- Specialisation in General Medical Physics
  - Major in Biomechanics
    - Electives