Experimental techniques

Year
1
Academic year
2011-2012
Code
03004984
Subject Area
Cross-curricular
Language of Instruction
Portuguese
Mode of Delivery
Face-to-face
Duration
SEMESTRIAL
ECTS Credits
6.0
Type
Compulsory
Level
3rd Cycle Studies

Recommended Prerequisites

Basic laboratory tests and fundamental theoretical knowledge within the different experimental research fields.

Teaching Methods

The theoretical classes expose the concepts, principles and fundamental theories allowing to perform experimental work in the scientific research field. The laboratory classes include various practical applications, from the simplest, such as calibration of measuring transducers, to more complex ones, such as advanced element tests and physical modelling.

Learning Outcomes

Establish the fundamental concepts for programming, performing and interpreting results of experimental activities of scientific level and promote the use of new techniques and advanced experimental methods, aiming at providing the students with competencies for carrying out experimental work autonomously and safely, namely for research purposes. Developing competencies for working in a research lab environment independently and responsibly, for taking decisions and solve problems under unexpected conditions and/or under pressure, for using electro-mechanic equipment and computer resources of different types, for communication with experts and non-experts in the field and also of information management and written communication.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

A. Common:

1. Introduction: types of tests and samples; planning, equipment preparation, events registering and safety in the laboratory; result interpretation

2. Notions of metrology: measuring systems

3. Measuring systems: characteristics, functioning, selection and use

4. A/D converters: fundamentals and performance

5. Measurements recording: criteria to use; aliasing

6. Instruments calibration: principles and practical applications

7. Strain-gauging: general principles and types of extensometers; application methodology; practical applications

B. Specialization (to be selected according to the PhD branch):

8.i. Constructions Laboratory: specific experiments- demonstrations and practical applications;

8.ii. Structures Laboratory: specific experiments- demonstrations and practical applications;

8.iii. Geotechnics Laboratory: specific experiments- demonstrations and practical applications;

Head Lecturer(s)

Paulo Alexandre Lopes Figueiredo Coelho

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Evaluation is based only on the quality of the written reports: 100.0%

Bibliography

- Harry G. Harris, Gajanan M. Sabnis - Structural Modeling and Experimental Techniques, CRC Press LLC, ISBN 0-8493-2469-6, 1999

- Albert S. Kobayashi, Handbook on experimental mechanics. 2ª ed. rev. New York 1993

- Coelho, P.A.L.F., Branco, J.F.G. & Dias, A.M.P.G. - Apontamentos das Aulas Teóricas