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Dr. Wayne Whiteman, PE

This course is an introduction to learning and applying the principles required to solve engineering mechanics problems. Concepts will be applied in this course from previous courses you have taken in basic math and physics. The course addresses the modeling and analysis of static equilibrium problems with an emphasis on real world engineering applications and problem solving.

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This course is an introduction to learning and applying the principles required to solve engineering mechanics problems. Concepts will be applied in this course from previous courses you have taken in basic math and physics. The course addresses the modeling and analysis of static equilibrium problems with an emphasis on real world engineering applications and problem solving.

The copyright of all content and materials in this course are owned by either the Georgia Tech Research Corporation or Dr. Wayne Whiteman. By participating in the course or using the content or materials, whether in whole or in part, you agree that you may download and use any content and/or material in this course for your own personal, non-commercial use only in a manner consistent with a student of any academic course. Any other use of the content and materials, including use by other academic universities or entities, is prohibited without express written permission of the Georgia Tech Research Corporation. Interested parties may contact Dr. Wayne Whiteman directly for information regarding the procedure to obtain a non-exclusive license.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Forces and Particle Equilibrium
In this section, students will learn the definition of a force and how to represent a force as a vector in two (2D) and three (3D) dimensions. Students will learn the concept of particle equilibrium and equilibrium of systems of particles. Concepts will be reinforced with example problems.
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Define and Calculate Moments
In this section, students will learn the definition of a moment. Students will calculate the moment of a force about a point, line or axis, and moment due to a couple.
Equilibrium and Equivalence of Force Systems
In this section, students will learn the equilibrium equations in two (2D) and three (3D) dimensions. Students will solve equivalent system problems. System force results will be defined and calculated.
Free Body Diagrams and Equilibrium Analysis Techniques
In this section, students will learn to analyze general equilibrium problems. Free Body Diagrams (FBD) will be defined. Concepts will be reinforced with example problems.
Application of Static Equilibrium Equations
In this section, students will apply the equilibrium equations to solve two (2D) and three (3D) real world engineering problems. There will be an extensive use of example problems to reinforce concepts from the course.

Good to know

Know what's good
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Develops engineering mechanics knowledge and skills, which are core skills for careers in engineering and other technical fields
Examines the fundamentals of engineering mechanics, which is highly relevant to careers in engineering
Builds a strong foundation for beginners in engineering mechanics
Uses example problems to reinforce concepts, which is helpful for learners who prefer a hands-on approach
Taught by Dr. Wayne Whiteman, who is recognized for their work in engineering mechanics

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Reviews summary

Well-explained introduction to mechanics

Learners say this course has largely positive reviews about its engaging assignments and excellent explanations. Dr. Wayne Whiteman's teaching style is effective, clear, and concise. The course covers the basics of engineering mechanics, including statics, forces, and equilibrium. Students appreciate the practical examples and real-life applications used throughout the lessons.
Students find the course helpful for building a strong foundation in mechanics.
"This course was a great way for me to start getting familiar with mechanics."
"It will definitely help in getting strong basis for further studies."
The course includes practice problems and quizzes to reinforce learning.
"The practice problems were helpful."
"The assignments were challenging and helped me learn."
"The homework sheets also which made me confident for better understanding."
Dr. Whiteman presents complex concepts in an easy-to-understand way.
"He is a very good teacher at explaining everything."
"Ability of Dr. Wayne Whiteman to clear concept is very simple and good."
"The course content and the way instructor has explained everything are amazing!"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Engineering Mechanics with these activities:
Review Basic Physics and Math Concepts
Strengthen the foundation by refreshing basic physics and math concepts essential for this course.
Show steps
  • Review notes or textbooks from relevant physics and math courses.
  • Practice solving problems involving force, motion, and equilibrium.
Follow Online Tutorials on Free Body Diagrams
Strengthen the ability to analyze forces acting on objects by reviewing guided tutorials.
Browse courses on Free Body Diagrams
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  • Search for reputable online tutorials on free body diagrams.
  • Work through the tutorials, pausing to practice and apply concepts.
Form a Study Group for Equilibrium Problems
Enhance problem-solving skills and deepen understanding by collaborating with peers.
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  • Identify fellow classmates who are interested in forming a study group.
  • Meet regularly to discuss problems, share insights, and quiz each other.
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Practice Equilibrium Problems
Improve problem-solving skills by practicing various equilibrium problems.
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  • Review the concepts of force, moment, and equilibrium.
  • Attempt a variety of equilibrium problems from textbooks or online resources.
Review Engineering Mechanics Statics Textbook
Reinforce and deepen understanding of equilibrium principles by reviewing a comprehensive textbook.
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  • Read the relevant chapters of the textbook.
  • Solve practice problems included in the textbook.
Attend a Workshop on Static Equilibrium Analysis
Gain insights and practical skills in static equilibrium analysis by attending a workshop led by experts.
Browse courses on Engineering Mechanics
Show steps
  • Research and identify workshops specializing in static equilibrium analysis.
  • Attend the workshop, taking notes and actively participating.
Create a Presentation on Equilibrium Applications
Enhance understanding of how equilibrium principles are applied in real-world engineering designs.
Browse courses on Engineering Design
Show steps
  • Identify different examples of equilibrium applications in various engineering fields.
  • Research and gather information on the equilibrium principles involved in these applications.
  • Create a visually engaging presentation that clearly explains the applications.
Participate in an Engineering Design Contest
Put equilibrium principles into practice by applying them to solve a real-world engineering problem.
Browse courses on Engineering Design
Show steps
  • Find an appropriate engineering design contest that aligns with the concepts covered in the course.
  • Form a team and brainstorm ideas for an innovative design that incorporates equilibrium principles.
  • Develop and refine the design, ensuring it meets all contest requirements.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Engineering Mechanics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Structural Engineer
As a Structural Engineer, you would be responsible for designing, analyzing, and constructing structures such as buildings, bridges, and towers. For example, you may specialize in earthquake engineering, where you would design and analyze structures to resist earthquakes. Introduction to Engineering Mechanics is a useful course for Structural Engineers because it helps develop a strong foundation in the principles of mechanics, which are essential for understanding and designing structures.
Civil Engineer
As a Civil Engineer, you would be responsible for designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure projects such as buildings, bridges, and roads. For example, you may specialize in structural engineering, where you would design and analyze the structural components of buildings to ensure they can withstand various loads and forces. Introduction to Engineering Mechanics is a useful course for Civil Engineers because it helps develop a strong foundation in the principles of mechanics, which are essential for understanding and designing civil engineering structures.
Mechanical Engineer
As a Mechanical Engineer, you would be responsible for designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems and devices. For example, you may specialize in robotics, where you would design and analyze robots to ensure they can perform specific tasks efficiently and safely. Introduction to Engineering Mechanics is a useful course for Mechanical Engineers because it helps develop a strong foundation in the principles of mechanics, which are essential for understanding and designing mechanical systems and devices.
Aerospace Engineer
As an Aerospace Engineer, you would be responsible for studying, designing, developing, testing, and maintaining aircraft. For example, you may specialize in structural design, where you would design and analyze the structural components of an aircraft to ensure it can withstand various loads and forces. Introduction to Engineering Mechanics is a useful course for Aerospace Engineers because it helps you develop a strong foundation in the principles of mechanics, which are essential for understanding and designing aircraft structures.
Robotics Engineer
As a Robotics Engineer, you would be responsible for designing, developing, and testing robots for use in a variety of industries. For example, you may specialize in autonomous systems, where you would design and analyze robots that can operate without human intervention. Introduction to Engineering Mechanics is a useful course for Robotics Engineers because it helps develop a foundation in the principles of mechanics, which are essential for understanding and designing robots.
Systems Engineer
As a Systems Engineer, you would be responsible for designing, developing, and integrating complex systems. For example, you may specialize in aerospace systems, where you would design and develop systems for aircraft and spacecraft. Introduction to Engineering Mechanics is a useful course for Systems Engineers because it helps develop a foundation in the principles of mechanics, which are essential for understanding and designing complex systems.
Biomedical Engineer
As a Biomedical Engineer, you would be responsible for designing, developing, and testing medical equipment and devices. For example, you may specialize in biomechanics, where you would apply engineering principles to analyze and understand the mechanics of the human body. Introduction to Engineering Mechanics is a useful course for Biomedical Engineers because it helps develop a solid foundation in the principles of mechanics, which are important for understanding and designing medical devices and equipment.
Nuclear Engineer
As a Nuclear Engineer, you would be responsible for designing, developing, and operating nuclear power plants and systems. For example, you may specialize in reactor design, where you would design and analyze nuclear reactors to ensure they are safe and efficient. Introduction to Engineering Mechanics is a useful course for Nuclear Engineers because it helps develop a foundation in the principles of mechanics, which are essential for understanding and designing nuclear power plants and systems.
Materials Engineer
As a Materials Engineer, you would be responsible for developing and testing new materials for use in a variety of industries. For example, you may specialize in composites, where you would design and analyze composite materials to ensure they meet specific performance requirements. Introduction to Engineering Mechanics is a useful course for Materials Engineers because it helps develop a foundation in the principles of mechanics, which are essential for understanding and designing materials.
Transportation Engineer
As a Transportation Engineer, you would be responsible for planning, designing, and operating transportation systems such as roads, railways, and airports. For example, you may specialize in traffic engineering, where you would design and analyze traffic systems to improve traffic flow and safety. Introduction to Engineering Mechanics is a useful course for Transportation Engineers because it helps develop a foundation in the principles of mechanics, which are essential for understanding and designing transportation systems.
Chemical Engineer
As a Chemical Engineer, you would be responsible for designing, developing, and operating chemical plants and processes. For example, you may specialize in process design, where you would design and analyze chemical processes to ensure they are efficient and safe. Introduction to Engineering Mechanics is a useful course for Chemical Engineers because it helps develop a foundation in the principles of mechanics, which are essential for understanding and designing chemical processes and equipment.
Petroleum Engineer
As a Petroleum Engineer, you would be responsible for designing, developing, and operating oil and gas fields. For example, you may specialize in reservoir engineering, where you would design and analyze oil and gas reservoirs to ensure they are developed efficiently and safely. Introduction to Engineering Mechanics may be useful for Petroleum Engineers because it helps develop a foundation in the principles of mechanics, which can be helpful for understanding and designing oil and gas reservoirs.
Electrical Engineer
As an Electrical Engineer, you would be responsible for designing, developing, and testing electrical systems and devices. For example, you may specialize in power systems, where you would design and analyze electrical power systems to ensure they are efficient and reliable. Introduction to Engineering Mechanics may be useful for Electrical Engineers because it helps develop a foundation in the principles of mechanics, which can be helpful for understanding and designing electrical systems and devices.
Industrial Engineer
As an Industrial Engineer, you would be responsible for designing, improving, and installing integrated systems for managing industrial production and operations. For example, you may specialize in ergonomics, where you would design and evaluate workplaces and work processes to ensure they are safe and efficient. Introduction to Engineering Mechanics may be useful for Industrial Engineers because it helps develop a foundation in the principles of mechanics, which can be helpful for understanding and designing industrial systems and processes.
Software Engineer
As a Software Engineer, you would be responsible for designing, developing, and testing software applications. For example, you may specialize in computer graphics, where you would design and develop software for creating and manipulating images and videos. Introduction to Engineering Mechanics may be useful for Software Engineers because it helps develop a foundation in the principles of mechanics, which can be helpful for understanding and designing software for physical simulations and other applications.

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Engineering Mechanics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of statics and dynamics. It commonly used textbook in engineering courses and provides a solid foundation for understanding the principles of mechanics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of statics and mechanics of materials. It commonly used textbook in engineering courses and provides a solid foundation for understanding the principles of mechanics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of engineering mechanics, covering both statics and dynamics. It commonly used textbook in engineering courses and provides a solid foundation for understanding the principles of mechanics.
Is specifically tailored towards engineering students and provides a clear and concise introduction to the principles of statics. It valuable resource for reinforcing the concepts covered in the course.
Uses a vector approach to present the principles of dynamics. It valuable resource for students who want to develop a strong foundation in mechanics.
Provides a more in-depth coverage of statics and mechanics of materials. It useful reference for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the subject.
While this book is more focused on classical mechanics, it provides a good introduction to the fundamental principles of mechanics, including statics. It valuable resource for students who want to develop a strong foundation in physics and mechanics.
Provides a practical approach to statics and strength of materials. It useful resource for students who want to learn how to apply the principles of mechanics to real-world engineering problems.
While this book primarily focuses on dynamics, it also provides a good review of statics. It comprehensive resource that can be used as a supplement or reference for both statics and dynamics.
While this book is not specifically about mechanics, it provides a good overview of the engineering design process. It valuable resource for students who want to learn how to apply the principles of mechanics to real-world engineering problems.
Provides an introduction to MATLAB, a powerful software tool that can be used to solve engineering problems. It valuable resource for students who want to learn how to use MATLAB to analyze and visualize data.
Provides an introduction to engineering drawing and design. It valuable resource for students who want to learn how to create technical drawings and designs.

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