Applied mechanics or Engineering Mechanics involves practical application of mechanics. Pure mechanics describes the response of bodies (solids and fluids) or systems of bodies to external application of forces, whether at rest or in motion. Applied mechanics bridges the gap between physical theory and its application to technology. It is used in many fields of engineering. especially mechanical engineering and civil engineering, in this context, it is commonly referred to as engineering mechanics. Much of modern applied or engineering mechanics is based on Isaac Newton’s laws of motion, while the modern practice of their application can be traced back to Stephen Timoshenko who is said to be the father of modern engineering mechanics.
This department also includes the study of Mechanical Engineering Design sometimes referred to simply as Mechanical Design or Machine Design. Mechanical design means the design of components and systems of a mechanical nature—machines, products, structures, devices and instruments. Ituses all the principles learned in the various areas of mechanical engineering and related subjects to design mechanical systems and machines. Of major importance in the design of machines and components are the subjects studied under Applied Mechanics.
