AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The module covers elements of solid and structural mechanics applied to civil and territorial engineering. Solid and structural mechanics: two‑dimensional elastic models for the study of tunnels, dams, and reservoirs; propagation of body and surface waves for geoseismic applications; bending plates and shells in membrane regime for the analysis of foundations and territorial structures. Structural dynamics: modeling of discrete systems with one and multiple degrees of freedom, with particular reference to environmental actions such as earthquakes and wind.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course aims to provide students with the theoretical and methodological knowledge of solid and structural mechanics necessary for the analysis of planar problems and two-dimensional structures, such as plates, slabs, and shells, developing an informed ability to interpret structural behavior and evaluate design decisions. The course also aims to introduce the fundamentals of structural dynamics, with reference to the analysis of discrete and continuous systems with one or more degrees of freedom. Particular attention will be paid to the formulation of effective computational models for structural analysis, developed using both analytical and numerical approaches.

At the end of the course, students will be able to interpret the static and dynamic behavior of structural systems of varying complexity typical of civil engineering; develop and apply structural computational models, both analytical and numerical, with particular reference to the theories of beams, slabs, plates, and shells; analyze the mechanical response of structures subjected to the main static and dynamic actions of anthropogenic and environmental origin; critically evaluate the adequacy of the adopted models and the reliability of the obtained results; understand the theoretical foundations of the finite element method, necessary for a conscious and critical use of structural calculation software.

TEACHING METHODS

The course is divided into theoretical lectures and practical exercises, held in person, including interactive and cooperative sessions. The latter are aimed at studying application examples of engineering interest.
Although attendance is not mandatory, class participation is strongly recommended.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

Recall of linear theory of elasticity

• Field equations
• Boundary conditions
• Solution strategies for the elastic problem

Introduction to structural modeling

• Structural theories
• Criteria for defining structural models
• Introduction to numerical methods in structural analysis
• Introduction to the Finite Element Method

The theory of the beam with distributed elastic springs

• Axial problem
• Bending-shear problem
• Numerical solutions using the Finite Element Method

Plane stress and plane strain problems

• Plane stress and plane strain states
• Formulation of the plane elastic problem in terms of stresses
• Analytical solutions to special plane problems
• Menbranes
• Notes on Finite Elements for plane strain and plane stress problems

Two-dimensional structural theories

• Mindlin-Reissner plate theory
• Kirchhoff-Love plate theory
• Analytical solution methods for plate problems
• Notes on Finite Elements for plates
• Analysis membrane-plate coupling
• Notes on shell Finite Element models

Discrete single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) dynamical systems

• Circular motion and harmonic functions
• Equation of motion
• Free oscillations
• Viscous damping
• Forced oscillations
• Response spectrum

Discrete multi-degree-of-freedom dynamical systems

• Equations of motion
• Free oscillations
• Modal decomposition
• Damping

Numerical methods for dynamic analysis

• Numerical integration of the equations of motion
• Modal analysis and setp-by-step analysis using the Finite Element Method
• Fourier transform
• Frequency domain analysis

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

During the course, the instructor will prepare teaching materials to support the study of the topics. These will be downloadable from the AulaWeb website, after registering for the course.

Reference books:

• L. Corradi Dell'Acqua. Meccanica delle strutture, Vol. 1 e 2, McGraw-Hill, $2^a$ ed., 2010.
• E. Viola. Fondamenti di dinamica e vibrazione delle strutture, Vol. 1 - Sistemi discreti, Società Editrice Esculapio, 2023

Other suggested books:

• O. Belluzzi. Scienza delle costruzioni, Vol. 3, Zanichelli, $3^a$ ed., 2010.
• E. Viola. Fondamenti di dinamica e vibrazione delle strutture, Vol. 2 - Sistemi continui, Società Editrice Esculapio, 2023.
• A.K. Chopra. Dynamics of structures, Prentice Hall, $6^a$ ed., 2022.
• E.L. Wilson. Static and dynamic analysis of structures, Computers and Structures, Inc., $4^a$ ed., 2010.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam involves completing a series of exercises related to the various topics covered during the course and assigned by the instructor during class. These exercises will be discussed by students during an oral exam.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The exam, in oral form, is designed to assess the student's knowledge of the topics and methodologies covered during the course. It involves discussing the exercises completed during the course and deepening the student's theoretical knowledge.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Students with certified learning disabilities, disabilities, or other special educational needs are encouraged to contact the instructor at the beginning of the course to agree on teaching and exam methods that, while respecting the course objectives, take into account individual learning styles and provide appropriate compensatory tools. Students are also reminded that any requests for compensatory tools and dispensation for exams must be submitted via the digital service available on https://unige.it/studenti-con-disabilita at least 7 working days before the exam.