Module Catalogue 2026/27

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

The aim of this module is to provide students with fundamental knowledge in the field of mechanics, establishing a solid foundation that is essential for success in subsequent modules. Specifically, the aims of this module are:

- To provide the basic knowledge and analytical skills to solve linear mechanics problems;

- To develop a conceptual understanding of core mechanics concepts;

- To develop an ability to describe and predict the motions of bodies.

Outline Of Syllabus

The syllabus encompasses the main aspects of mechanics and is structured around three core areas:

- Statics: Use of free body diagrams, equilibrium, shear force, axial force and bending moments (for statically determinate beams and trusses), Euler buckling theory, deflection of beams (through standard formulae).

- Dynamics: Newton's second law for linear and rotating systems, moment of inertia, parallel axes theorem, introduction to vibration, friction, impulse and momentum, mechanics of machines (e.g. mechanical drives)

- Strength of materials: stress and strain, normal stress and shear stress, Hooke's law, elastic modulus; application of stress/strain to beam bending, second moment of area.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

The mapping of certain AHEPv4 learning outcomes is indicated as [Cx] below.

At the end of this module, learners will have gained an appreciation and be able to satisfactorily apply in the context of engineering activities concepts related to the fundamentals of statics, dynamics and basic machine dynamics as well as forces on a free body [C1; C2].

Learners will also be able to employ the principles of rigid body motion in terms of external forces and torques, mass and moment of inertia plus stress and strain in a body under some simple loading cases [C3; C4].

This module meets the following Degree Apprenticeship knowledge outcomes:
K5, K8, K12, K13

Intended Skill Outcomes

The mapping of certain AHEPv4 learning outcomes is indicated as [Cx] below.

At the end of the module, the students will be able to [C1; C2; C3; C4]:

- recognise the need for rigid body or deformable body analysis as appropriate;

- analyse forces on a free body;

- analyse rigid body motion in terms of external forces and torques, mass and moment of inertia;

- determine stress and strain in a body under some simple loading cases.

- take responsibility for developing and maintaining of own technical knowledge.

- Articulate clearly and succinctly a deep understanding of scientific, mathematical and engineering principles appropriate to the research, design, development or modifications/updates of products, components and/or systems.

This module meets the following Degree Apprenticeship skill outcomes:
S4, S5, S13

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures convey the underlying engineering science and the approaches required to apply this to the discipline- specific problems identified.

Tutorials support the students' self-study in applying the lecture material and learning to solve the practical engineering problems posed by the tutorial questions.

Labs enable students to attain hands-on experience in experimental and software techniques.

Degree Apprenticeship learners will spend significant time in the work place. Therefore, substantial recorded material will be made available for learners to study flexibly whilst off-campus.

Time for distance learning is factored in to the module. Given this is a Degree Apprenticeship programme, time may also be spent on employer based skills training, linked to the module content.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The examinations provide an appropriate way to assess both theoretical understanding and practical problem solving skills under time-constraint as required in industry. A single A4 sheet (two-sided) may be prepared in advance and taken into the exam as a study support.

The Semester 1 formative assessment provides an opportunity for students to practice and become familiar with the summative assessment in advance. It also provides a point for self-reflection on learning.

These asseesments meets following AHEPv4 learning outcomes:
C1; C2; C3; C4
These asseesments meets the following Degree Apprenticeship knowledge outcomes:
K5, K8, K12, K13
These asseesments meets the following Degree Apprenticeship skill outcomes:
S4, S5, S13

General Notes

N/A