Engineering Mechanics

What is Engineering Mechanics ?

Engineering Mechanics

Statics and dynamics are introductory engineering mechanics source, and they are among the first engineering courses encountered by most students. Therefore, it is appropriate that we begin with a brief exposition on the meaning of the term "Engineering Mechanics" and on the role that these courses play in engineering education. Before defining engineering mechanics, we must first consider the similarities and differences between physics and engineering.

In general terms, physics is the science that relates the properties of matter and energy, excluding biological and chemical effects. Physics includes the study of mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, and nuclear physics. On the other hand, engineering is the application of the mathematical and physical sciences (physics, chemistry, and biology) to the design and manufacture of items that benefit humanity. Design is the key concept that distinguishes engineers from scientists. According to the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), engineering design is the process of devising a system, component, or process to meet desired needs.

Mechanics is the branch of physics that considers the action of forces on bodies or fluids that are at rest or in motion. Correspondingly, the primary topics of mechanics are statics and dynamics. The first topic that you studied in your initial physics course, in either high school or college, was undoubtedly mechanics. Thus, engineering mechanics is the branch of engineering that applies the principles of mechanics to mechanical design (i.e., any design that must take into account the effect of forces). The primary goal of engineering mechanics courses is to introduce the student to the engineering applications of mechanics. Statics and Dynamics are generally followed by one or more courses that introduce material properties and deformation, usually called Strength of Materials. This sequence of courses is then followed by formal training in mechanical design.

Of course, engineering mechanics is an integral component of the education of engineers whose disciplines are related to the mechanical sciences, such as aerospace engineering, architectural engineering, civil engineering, and mechanical engineering. However, a knowledge of engineering mechanics is also useful in most other engineering disciplines, because there, too, the mechanical behavior of a body or fluid must often be considered. Because mechanics was the first physical science to be applied to everyday life, it follows that engineering mechanics is the oldest branch of engineering. Given the interdisciplinary character of many engineering applications (e.g. robotics and manufacturing), a sound training in engineering mechanics continues to be one of the most important aspects of engineering education.