Course overview
This course introduces students to the basic physical laws governing the the interaction of bodies. It focuses on the planar kinematics and dynamics of rigid bodies – force, momentum, impuls, moment (torque), angular momentum, moment of inertia, as well as on the theory of vibrations and mechanical waves. In addition, it focuses on Eulers laws for planar motion, translation and rotation; work and energy, and collisions.The course places a special emphasis on constructing mechanical models by using relevant approximation and analyzing those models by using mathematical methods.
Participants in piloting
The course is fundamental for mechanical engineering students and enrolled 120 students in the 2nd year of undergraduate studies in the Faculty of Mechanical and Precision Engineering. The course is mandatory in the formal curriculum of the Department of Applied Mechanics of the Technical University of Gabrovo.
Use of ALIEN services and tools
During the course of Mechanics II, students were exposed to active and problem-based learning in the contexts of pair work so as to determine the mass axial moment of inertia of a body of any shape by using SOLIDWORKS application and experiments during their lab practice.
First they got acquainted with the definition and application of an axial mass moment of inertia by using online resources. Then they determined the axial moment of an available body by an experiment. During the next step they built the geometry of the same body by using SOLIDWORKS. Finally they applied a calculation procedure to the geometry built in order to define the mass moment of inertia. The results were presented and compared by each pair.
The active learning activities allowed students to better experiment and use technology, in particular, SOLIDWORKS, to solve a mechanical problem by using peer support, which would help them to better adapt to their future. They also enabled students to build problem-solving analytical skills, self-confidence and communication skills.
