Unit Catalogue

In this unit students will build on existing knowledge of structural theory to include an in-depth explanation of the assumptions and methodology within computer software commonly used in modern structural engineering practice. The theory of the stiffness method of analysis is developed to incorporate stability functions, leading to consideration of elastic instability of plane frameworks. Plastic theory of structures and bounding theory will be introduced. This unit includes theory and methods for determining the dynamic characteristics (resonant frequencies, amplitudes of steady-state vibration, and response history analyses) of structures and structural elements using manual calculations and computer methods. Building Information Modelling (BIM) will be introduced to the students and structural analysis in BIM will be discussed along with an introduction to the commonly used software packages for structural analysis in BIM.