57110 - Mechanics and Mechanical Systems

Learning outcomes

At the end of the module, the student is familiar with the basic principles of statics and mechanical systems; he/she is able to solve problems relating to the composition of mechanisms, forces acting on machines, efficiency, contact forces between solids, rigid body kinematics and its application to mechanisms, articulated systems. He acquires the basic knowledge for the functional analysis of machines and mechanisms.

Course contents

Forces: composition of several forces in the plane and in space, weights and barycentres, Guldino's theorems, exercises. Moments and pairs: moments of forces, pairs of forces, static moments, exercises. Bound bodies: forces applied to rigid bodies, equilibrium of bound bodies, calculation of reactions in an isostatic structure, graphic procedures, equilibrium of bodies subject to their own weight, trusses, exercises. Simple machines: levers and machines derived from them, hoists and winches, inclined plane, wedge screw, exercises. Friction: sliding friction, in pivots, rolling friction, winding friction, exercises. Consequences of friction: real constraints, brakes, friction clutches, efficiency. Hydrostatics: characteristics of fluids, hydrostatic pressure, hydrostatic thrust, principles: Pascal's, Archimedes', communicating vessels, exercises. Hydrodynamics: current regimes, continuity equation, Bernoulli's theorem, pressure drops, Torricelli's formula, exercises. Channels and pipes: pressure drops in channels and pipes, Darcy's formula, exercises.

Readings/Bibliography

Handouts provided by the teacher.

Teaching methods

A comprehensive overview of the laws of statics of constrained bodies will be presented. Special attention will be paid to the problems of the resistance of the medium, with particular emphasis on the practical consequences of friction. In addition, problems of hydrostatics and applied hydrodynamics will be addressed. For greater involvement during the lecture and to promote learning of the new content, explanatory images and graphs will be projected and made available to the students.

Assessment methods

The final examination consists of an oral interview.

Teaching tools

Video projector, PC.

Office hours

See the website of Alessandro Bettini