Detailed module information

Module information on this degree can be found below, separated by year of study.

The module information below applies for the current academic year. The academic year runs from August to July; the 'current year' switches over at the end of July.

Students select optional courses subject to rules specified in the Mechanical Engineering Student Handbook,  for example at most three Design and Business courses. Please note that numbers are limited on some optional courses and selection criteria will apply.

Applied Vibration Engineering

Module aims

This module teaches students how to use the theoretical principles of vibration, and vibration analysis techniques, for the practical solution of vibration problems. It builds on students’ prior knowledge of vibration theory, and concentrates on the applications. A key feature is that students work on identifying and defining the problems to be solved, prior to solving them. This includes choices of assumptions, choices of measurements to be made and information to be investigated, and choices of analysis techniques to be employed. 

ECTS units:  5

Learning outcomes

On successfully completing this module, students will be able to: 

1. Describe the nature of real vibration problems in engineering and their unwanted results

2. Explain the operating principles of common vibration measurement tools and of signal analysis techniques

3. Describe the principles of the advanced vibration modelling and analysis techniques, e.g. frequency response functions and Finite Element analysis

4. Analyse a vibration problem to identify and model its principal features

5. Estimate, from this analysis, a numerical solution (using simplified hand calculations where possible) and an assessment of its validity

6. Propose a strategy for the solution of a practical vibration problem

7. Take measurements using force hammers, accelerometers, noise meters and spectrum analysers

8. Prepare a Consultant-Client report and presentations, keeping a logbook of all practical work

Module syllabus

    • Illustrative examples of vibrations problems in engineering. 
    • Range of vibration problems
    • Modal analysis I
    • Modal analysis II
    • Measurement techniques
    • Noise
    • Use of equipment
    • Assessment of vibration problems
    • Finite element analysis I
    • Finite element analysis II
    • Model validation
    • Analysis of transient response
    • Practical approaches to solving vibration problems

Pre-requisites

ME2-hDYN  Dynamics, or equivalent course elsewhere.

Teaching methods

1 x 1h/week lectures on theory and analytical methods. Several lectures include practical demonstrations. The lectures follow a developing sequence, covering the key aspects of problem identification, theoretical and experimental tools for understanding the problems, and strategies for solutions. During term 2, two of these lecture slots will be used to provide assistance with group projects and tutorial sheets. Students also complete a  small group Consultant-Client project where they tackle a real vibration problem, playing the roles of consultant and client. This is done in some of the lecture periods, plus some extra periods (about 5-8 hours) scheduled to fit with student's other timetable commitments, and also in students' own time.

Assessments

Assessment details        
      Pass mark   
Grading method Numeric   50%
         
         
Assessments        
Assessment type Assessment description Weighting Pass mark Must pass?
Examination 3 Hour exam 60% 50% Y
Coursework Consultant-client projects 40% 50% N

Reading list

Module leaders

Dr Christoph Schwingshackl