Imperial College London

This course introduces the basic concepts and methods of stress analysis. It explains the mathematical descriptions of stress analysis and demonstrates the physical significance of stress and strain and the importance and application of Hooke's Law. The course introduces the fundamental concepts of elasticity including Youngs Modulus and Poission ratio. The course then uses these descriptions to show how to solve a range of stress analysis problems including plane frames, stress and strain, pressure vessels and beams. 

This course situates the histories of science, technology and industry within global history from ancient times to the present day. The concepts of historical time, social and economic development, and even progress will be examined throughout. Continuity, change and the diffusion of knowledge and practices are central themes. The course covers a variety of activities, such as innovation, research, development, production, distribution, maintenance, and disposal. In so doing, the course draws upon a diverse array of historical sources and research gathered around themes such as power, control, empire, (de)globalisation, autarchy, logistics, gender, organization, and work. The course considers older social science thinkers such as Marx, Weber, and Foucault, as well as more recent commentators.

This course introduces students to the important mechanical properties that mechanical engineers require knowledge of and further introduces the concept and practice of materials selection.  The links between material structure, processing and properties are emphasized. Topics include tensile and fracture properties, material selection, atomic bonding, crystal structure and strengthening.  Also included is a focus on the four classes of engineering material: metals, ceramics, polymers and composites, considering the structure, properties and engineering applications of each. Practice in testing of materials is included.