Course Architecture3-Credit Core Syllabus

Progressive Learning Path

The MECHLAB solid mechanics curriculum develops in strict physical sequence: starting from static equilibrium and infinitesimal continuum stress, passing through internal flexural states, and culminating in multidimensional yield criteria and structural stability failure envelopes.

STAGE 01Fundamentals
Node 1 of 11

Fundamentals of Solid Mechanics

External vs internal forces, equilibrium states, and rigorous Free Body Diagram isolation.

Governing Relationship
ΣF = 0, ΣM = 0
11
Topics
5
Virtual Labs
9
Calculators

References: Timoshenko, Gere & Goodno, Hibbeler. Formulated strictly in SI units.

01
Topic 01
Fundamentals

Fundamentals of Solid Mechanics

ΣF = 0, ΣM = 0
External vs internal forces, equilibrium states, and rigorous Free Body Diagram isolation.Explore
02
Topic 02
Fundamentals

Stress and Strain Relations

σ = E·ε | τ = G·γ
03
Topic 03
Fundamentals

Elasticity & Material Properties

E = 2G(1 + ν)
04
Topic 04
Core Mechanics

Axial Loading & Deformation

δ = (F·L) / (A·E)
05
Topic 05
Core Mechanics

Torsion in Circular Members

τ = (T·r) / J
06
Topic 06
Structural Elements

Beam Flexure & Bending Stress

σ = -(M·y) / I
07
Topic 07
Structural Elements

Shear Force & Bending Moment

dM/dx = V(x)
08
Topic 08
Structural Elements

Second Moment of Area

I_x = I_xc + A·d²
09
Topic 09
Advanced Analysis

Principal Stresses & Mohr's Circle

σ₁,₂ = (σx+σy)/2 ± R
10
Topic 10
Advanced Analysis

Column Stability & Euler Buckling

P_cr = (π²·E·I) / (K·L)²
11
Topic 11
Advanced Analysis

Theories of Material Failure

σ_vm = √(σ₁² – σ₁σ₂ + σ₂²)
Curriculum Goal Achieved
Full synthesis of equilibrium, deformation, and failure criteria
Case Applications
11 Learning Modules

All Eleven Modules of Mechanics of Solids

A structured path from basic forces to failure theories. Each module combines clear derivations, worked examples, and interactive simulations.

01Module 1
Weeks 1 – 2
Fundamentals of Mechanics of Solids

Learn external and internal forces, types of loading, equilibrium conditions, and how to draw free body diagrams for engineering components.

Deliverable: Free body diagram practice set with worked answers
02Module 2
Weeks 3 – 4
Stress and Strain

Understand normal and shear stress, engineering strain, and Hooke's Law, with practical examples for each formula and unit.

Deliverable: Stress and strain calculator with step-by-step solutions
03Module 3
Weeks 5 – 6
Elasticity and Material Properties

Compare Young's modulus, shear modulus, bulk modulus, and Poisson's ratio across steel, aluminium, copper, and rubber.

Deliverable: Interactive material comparison chart
04Module 4
Weeks 7 – 8
Axial Loading and Deformation

Analyse elongation and shortening of axial members, including non-uniform sections and thermal deformation, using δ = FL/AE.

Deliverable: Axial deformation calculator with adjustable inputs
05Module 5
Weeks 9 – 10
Torsion

Study torque, angle of twist, and shear stress distribution in circular shafts, and how shafts transmit power in machines.

Deliverable: Rotating shaft simulation with torsion results
06Module 6
Weeks 11 – 12
Beams and Bending

Explore simply supported, cantilever, and fixed beams under point and distributed loads, including bending stress and the neutral axis.

Deliverable: Interactive beam simulation with deflection output
07Module 7
Weeks 13 – 14
Shear Force and Bending Moment

Calculate support reactions and construct shear force and bending moment diagrams using standard sign conventions.

Deliverable: Generated SFD and BMD for selected loading cases
08Module 8
Weeks 15 – 16
Moment of Inertia

Compute area moments of inertia using the parallel and perpendicular axis theorems, and compare rectangular, circular, and I-shaped sections.

Deliverable: Cross-section comparison tool with radius of gyration
09Module 9
Weeks 17 – 18
Principal Stresses and Strains

Transform plane stresses, find principal stresses and maximum shear stress, and interpret them with a dynamic Mohr's Circle.

Deliverable: Live Mohr's Circle visualisation
10Module 10
Weeks 19 – 20
Columns and Buckling

Apply Euler's buckling theory to short and long columns, using effective length, slenderness ratio, and different end conditions.

Deliverable: Euler buckling calculator and column simulation
11Module 11
Weeks 21 – 22
Failure Theories

Compare maximum principal stress, maximum shear stress, and distortion energy theories, and use factor of safety to prevent failure.

Deliverable: Failure theory comparison and factor of safety calculator
Start Learning

Ready to work through the modules?

Begin with the fundamentals or jump to the module you need. Use the calculators and laboratory to check your work.