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Experimental Mechanics
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:22:45
Abstract
The course provides an introduction to experimental mechanics and covers basic and advanced solid mechanics experimental testing methods. The basic working principles of analogic transducers, testing machines and of optical and X-ray tomographic imaging techniques are illustrated along with an overview of the essential image processing and analysis approaches. ccc
Objective
Understanding the basic principles of experimental methods in solid mechanics and acquiring the ability to properly design, execute and analyze experimental tests targeted to investigate a mechanical process.
Content
1. Introduction: testing machines; analogic and digital signals; force, displacement and strain transducers; test control. 2. Analogic transducers: working principles; load cells; LVDTs; strain gauges. 3. Solid mechanics tests: compression, tensile and bending tests; fracture mechanics tests. 4. Optical methods: 2D and 3D digital image correlation, basic principles and applications. 5. 3D X-ray computed tomography (CT): basic principles; CT scanning; image reconstruction and artifacts correction; segmentation, filtering and analysis. 6. Overview of advanced topics: 4D X-ray CT; in-situ testing; digital volume correlation; laser speckle interferometry; dynamic testing and high-speed cameras.
Resources
Lecture Notes
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General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , DR , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- end-of-semester examination
- Mode
- written 90 minutes
- Aids
- One double-sided hand-written (pen-on-paper) page of notes/formulae and a calculator are allowed. No further material is allowed.
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Experimental Mechanics |
|
2 h weekly |
| exercise | Experimental Mechanics |
|
1 h weekly |
Offered In
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Mechatronics and Robotics (Focus Coordinator: Prof. Marco Hutter)
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Microsystems and Nanoscale Engineering (Focus Coordinator: Prof. Christofer Hierold)
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Manufacturing Science (Focus Coordinator: Prof. Konrad Wegener To achieve the required 20 credit points for the focus specialization you need to pass at least 2 core courses (W+ in HS/FS). The other 12 credit points can be achieved from the elective courses (in HS/FS).)
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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.)
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Engineering for Health (Focus Coordinator: Prof. Bradley Nelson)
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Mechanics, Materials, Structures (The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor.)
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Recommended Elective Courses (These courses are particularly recommended for the Biomechanics track. Please consult your track adviser if you wish to select other subjects.)
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Doctorate Mechanical and Process Engineering (More Information at: )
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Doctorate Materials Science (Further information at: )
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