Why study mechanics?
Mechanics is a field having its roots in physics, mathematics, and engineering. Because of this, research activities and areas in modern mechanics are influenced in general by, and have aspects in, all three branches of science. In particular, modern mechanics forms an integral part of the foundations of current research activities in mechanical and civil engineering.
Mechanics has much to offer in many areas of application...
Just as important, however, is the fact that modern mechanics has much to offer in many areas of application. For example, mechanics in the form of continuum-thermodynamics-based modeling and finite-element-based numerical simulation plays an increasingly important role in the optimization of existing production and manufacturing processes as well as in the design and development of new such processes.
New materials are the key for modern products...
In addition, the methods of crystal plasticity, homogenization, micromechanics and multiscale modeling are being utilized in metallurgy and materials technology to design new materials and investigate new applications for existing materials in mechanical and civil engineering. In addition, issues such as the durability, lifetime, stability, safety, and quality, of engineering products are and can be investigated with the help of such methods. Many of these modern tools are themselves objects of active research, and are not available in most existing commercial codes.
Areas of research at the Institute of Mechanics...
- Statistical thermodynamics
- Continuum dislocation theory
- Micromechanics and homogenization theory
- Continuum thermodynamics and material theory
- Multiscale material modeling and simulation
- Crystal plasticity and texture modeling and simulation
- Ductile damage and fracture modeling and simulation
- Application of new numerical methods (e.g., element technology)
- Numerical simulation of material and structural behavior in engineering processes
Mechanics is applied science towards industrial applications...
For engineers it's important to be familiar with the underlying theoretical aspects of their work. Studying mechanics provides an insight to engineering applications and development.