After successful completion of the course, students are able to...

• derive structural mechanics models of appropriate complexity to solve engineering problems involving thin-walled structures.
• implement and apply specific numerical methods of engineering in a commercial or self-developed programming framework to obtain approximate solutions based on a weak or strong formulation of a given problem.
• verify the integrity of a computed result by critical examination or by means of a comparison with either analytical or semi-analytical reference solutions.
• contrast capabilities and limitations of given numerical methods in specific applications.
• argue conclusively for modelling choices and present the main outcomes of a self-executed study in a sound, well-structured manner.

Structural mechanics modelling, computational methods (finite differences, Ritz, FEM) as well as verification and validation against reference solutions for static or dynamic, geometrically (non)linear problems of thin-walled structures.

The steps involved in the scientific investigation of academic and applied problems in structural mechanics are demonstrated in the lecture and practised by the students in interactive exercises.
In the final assignment, students work individually or in small groups to apply computational methods to sample problems.
The main results of this study will be presented and critically evaluated in a discussion with the lecturer.

active contributions to lecture and exercises (20%), final assignment and accompanying discussion (80%)

It is recommended to complete the preceding lectures beforehand, as they provide the preliminary knowledge of tensor algebra, Lagrangian mechanics, classical structural theories and numerical methods in engineering.
Experience with programming or commercial mathematical software is an advantage; basic support can be provided for Wolfram-Mathematica and Matlab.