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Dynamics
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:01:13
Abstract
Dynamics of particles, rigid bodies and deformable bodies: Motion of a single particle, motion of systems of particles, 2D and 3D motion of rigid bodies, vibrations, waves
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, systems of particles, of rigid bodies and of deformable bodies, we introduce essential concepts such as kinematics, kinetics, 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 and waves in elastic rods. Throughout the course, the basic principles and application-oriented examples presented in the lectures and weekly exercise sessions help students aquire a proficient background in engineering dynamics, learn and embrace problem-solving techniques for dynamical engineering problems, gain cross-disciplinary expertise (by linking concepts from, among others, mechanics, mathematics, and physics), and prepare students for advanced courses and work on engineering applications.
Content
1. Motion of a single particle: kinematics (trajectory, velocity, acceleration), forces and torques, constraints, 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, mass accretion/loss. 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, concepts of stability, 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: local form of linear momentum balance, waves and vibrations in slender elastic rods.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Lecture notes (a scriptum) will be available on Moodle. Students are strongly encouraged to take their own notes during class.
Literature
A complete set of lecture notes (a scriptum) is available on Moodle. Further reading materials are suggested but not required for this class.
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 Monday lectures are held in HG F 7 with video transmission to HG F 5.
The Wednesday lectures are held in ML D 28 with video transmission to HCI G 7 (ETH Hönggerberg)
|
|
4 h weekly |
| exercise |
Dynamics
Groups are selected in myStudies.
The exercises will start in the 2nd week of the Semester:
- Thursday 8-10 for Mechanical Engineering BSc
- Friday 14-16 for Civil Engineering BSc
Zusätzlich wird das Study Center angeboten: Montags 18-20 ab der 3. Semesterwoche im HG F 7 wo die Möglichkeit des betreuten Lernens angeboten wird. Im Study Center können Studierende Vorlesungsstoff vor- oder nachbereiten und Übungen lösen.
|
|
2 h weekly |