The main objective of the course is to train students on basic topics of structural mechanics - statics, whose understanding is also necessary for subsequent courses, such as strength of materials, analysis of structures, etc.

The subject matter of the course is to study the behavior of rigid solid bodies under various loading and support conditions, to understand the basic principles of design and analysis of simple structures and to analyze simple problems mainly analytically, but also utilizing simple engineering software.

Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• Gain knowledge on the basic principles of mechanics of rigid solid bodies.
• Revoke the main concepts of basic force and moment equilibrium methodologies in the analysis of simple structural problems.
• Identify the primary issues in problem-solving in structural mechanics in an effective manner.

• Search, analyze and synthesize data and information, using the necessary technologies
• Adaptation to new circumstances and challenges
• Decision-making
• Autonomous work
• Teamwork
• Project planning and management
• Advance free, creative and causative thinking

The course content includes:

1. General principles of mechanics of structures. 
2. Forces on particles and rigid bodies.
3. Basic components and units.
4. Equilibrium of a particle and a rigid body.
5. Force and moment vectors, equivalent systems. 
6. Statically determined structures - Types of loads and supports.
7. Free body diagram.
8. Analysis of 2-D simple trusses, beams, frames and cables. 
9. Diagrams of internal forces and moments. 
10. Center of gravity and centroid. 
11. Friction.
12. Structural stability.
13. Analytical and computational case studies.

• Extensive use of Information & Communication Technology in teaching procedure
• Power point presentations
• E-class support (for teaching and students communication)
• Specialized software for simple structures.

Assessment Method

Ι. Written final examination (70%): Solution of characteristic problems related to lesson themes.

ΙΙ. Individual Projects (30%)

• F.P. Beer, R.E. Johnston, D. Mazurek, E.R. Eisenberg, Statics, 11th  Edition, 2012. (Eudoxus code: 22694253)
• R.C. Hibbeler, Statics, 2010. (Eudoxus code: 4321)
• M. Kraige, Technical Mechanics, 2013. (Eudoxus code: 33074320)