Mechanical Engineering MSc
Vibration ENG5090
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: School of Engineering
- Credits: 20
- Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
- Typically Offered: Semester 2
- Available to Visiting Students: Yes
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
Multi-degree-of-freedom Lumped Parameter Systems: Matrix representation, forced vibration using normal mode analysis, principal coordinates, coordinate transformations, orthogonality, dealing with damping, Lagrangian dynamics. Continuous Systems: Longitudinal and torsional vibration of rods, lateral vibration of beams.
Timetable
4 lectures per week
Excluded Courses
Vibration M4 ENG4137
Co-requisites
None
Assessment
75% Degree examination
25% Written report
Main Assessment In: April/May
Course Aims
The aims of this course are to:
■ provide a good grounding in vibration fundamentals in order to intelligently use Finite Element (FE) packages to obtain a meaningful and reliable result;
■ introduce vibration testing as a fundamental part of troubleshooting and demonstrate that much analysis can be performed using models based on experimental measurements;
■ provide enough theoretical background to understand the two powerful tools of FE and experimental modal analysis;
■ demonstrate how experimental modal analysis and FE analysis can be used as a troubleshooting tool or a design tool.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of this course students will be able to:
■ model and analyse simple lumped mass systems by hand;
■ model and analyse rods and beams by hand;
■ appreciate the principles of FE analysis and other approximation techniques;
■ appreciate the principles of and be able to perform experimental modal analysis;
■ have detailed knowledge and be able to use experimental modal analysis techniques for troubleshooting and design;
■ use FE packages for design and troubleshooting;
■ appreciate the principles of random vibration and some of the problems of nonlinear vibration.