FALL 2008 ME104Q LIFE'S STRUCTURES
mechanical design in nature
and in the technological world
COURSE TOPICS 
Gordon: 
(chapters)
Other(s)
I. The tools of the trade
    
1. Structures of our life 
1
  
2. Newtonian mechanics. The equilibrium problem. 
1
x
3. Distance, velocity, acceleration 
1
  
4. Force, force addition, examples. Power and energy  
x
II. The design process
    
1. Problem definition, constraints, metrics of success, testing, evaluation. 
   Technical presentation and communication.
1
x
2. Loads. Free body diagrams  
x
3. Supports and constraints  
x
III. Solid materials in design
    
1. Stress and strain, elasticity. Structures as springs.
2, 3
 x
2. Metals, polymers, and wood.  
 x
3. Biological materials.
8
x
IV. Failure of materials and structures
    
1. Strength and safety factors. Fracture and cracks.
4, 5
 x
2. Failure in tension.
6, 7
 x
3. Failure in compression.
9, 13
 x
4. Failure by shear.
12
 x
5. Failure of biological materials.
8
 x
V. Structural elements
    
1. Tension structures.
6, 7
  
2. Beams and frames.
10, 11
  
3. Vibrations and dynamics  
x
4. Scaling in masonry structures
9
  
5. Scaling in biological structures  
x
VI. Design of structures (biological and man-made)
    
1. Economics and social issues, aesthetics and ethical issues. Legal issues.
14, 15, 16
x
2. Muscles  
 x
3. Biological structures. Skeletons and joints
11
  
4. Heart and circulatory system
8
x
5. Temples, towers and gothic cathedrals.
9, 11
  
6. Bridges.
10
  
7. Arches and domes.
9
  
8. Aqueducts and canals.  
x

Renato Perucchio
 updated 14 July 2008 Go to top of this page

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