Method of Virtual Work - Engineering Mechanics (Undergraduate Advanced)

Analysis of equilibrium of rigid bodies by the method of virtual work.

Enrolment valid for 12 months
This course is also part of the following learning track. You may join the track to gain comprehensive knowledge across related courses.
Engineering Mechanics I - Statics
Engineering Mechanics I - Statics
Statics decides if a structure stands or fails. This track teaches force calculation, support reactions, and equilibrium analysis for stable engineering systems. You will move from particle resolution to full structural modelling. The curriculum delivers the exact mathematical foundation required for real design work. This programme is for first and second-year engineering undergraduates. It suits mechanical, civil, aerospace, and structural students, plus polytechnic learners. You only need basic physics and vector algebra. The sequence provides the precise calculation methods your degree demands. You will finish able to resolve two and three dimensional forces, compute moments and couples, and solve rigid body equilibrium problems. You will calculate truss loads, evaluate friction in screws and belts, locate centres of gravity, and verify systems using virtual work. These results secure high grades in advanced mechanics modules and prepare you for structural design, machine engineering, and civil site roles.

Statics decides if a structure stands or fails. This track teaches force calculation, support reactions, and equilibrium analysis for stable engineering systems. You will move from particle resolution to full structural modelling. The curriculum delivers the exact mathematical foundation required for real design work. This programme is for first and second-year engineering undergraduates. It suits mechanical, civil, aerospace, and structural students, plus polytechnic learners. You only need basic physics and vector algebra. The sequence provides the precise calculation methods your degree demands. You will finish able to resolve two and three dimensional forces, compute moments and couples, and solve rigid body equilibrium problems. You will calculate truss loads, evaluate friction in screws and belts, locate centres of gravity, and verify systems using virtual work. These results secure high grades in advanced mechanics modules and prepare you for structural design, machine engineering, and civil site roles.

See more

Course Chapters

1. Introduction
Welcome to the course and motivation for the method of virtual work for the analysis of the equilibrium of rigid bodies.
2. Work
Meaning and determination of the work of a force or couple and an introduction to virtual work.
3. Basic Principle
Introduction and application of the basic method of virtual work to problems of equilibrium of connected rigid bodies and mechanical efficiency of machines.
4. Conservative Forces and Potential Energy
Meaning of conservative forces; determining work of conservative forces and its relation to potential energy.
5. Potential Energy and Stability
Analysis of stability of rigid bodies or systems of rigid bodies under the action of conservative forces.