Mechanical Engineering Principles

A student-friendly introduction to core mechanical engineering topics.

This book introduces mechanical principles and technology through examples and applications, enabling students to develop a sound understanding of both engineering principles and their use in practice. These theoretical concepts are supported by 400 fully worked problems, 700 further problems with answers, and 300 multiple-choice questions, all of which add up to give the reader a firm grounding on each topic.

Two new chapters are included, covering the basic principles of matrix algebra and the matrix displacement method. The latter will also include guidance on software that can be used via SmartPhones, tablets or laptops. The new edition is up to date with the latest BTEC National specifications and can also be used on undergraduate courses in mechanical, civil, structural, aeronautical and marine engineering, and naval architecture.

A companion website contains the fully worked solutions to the problems and revision tests, practical demonstration videos, as well as a glossary and information on the famous engineers mentioned in the text.

John Bird is the former Head of Applied Electronics in the Faculty of Technology at Highbury College, Portsmouth, UK. More recently, he has combined freelance lecturing at the University of Portsmouth with Examiner responsibilities for Advanced Mathematics with City and Guilds and examining for the International Baccalaureate Organisation. He is the author of over 135 textbooks on engineering and mathematical subjects with worldwide sales of over one million copies. He is a chartered engineer, a chartered mathematician, a chartered scientist and a Fellow of three professional institutions and is currently lecturing at the Defence School of Marine Engineering in the Defence College of Technical Training at H.M.S. Sultan, Gosport, Hampshire, UK, one of the largest technical training establishments in Europe.

Carl Ross gained his first degree in Naval Architecture from King’s College, Durham University, his PhD in Structural Engineering from the Victoria University of Manchester, and was awarded his DSc in Ocean Engineering from the CNAA, London. His research in the field of engineering led to advances in the design of submarine pressure hulls. His publications and guest lectures to date exceed some 300 papers, books, etc., and he was Professor of Structural Dynamics at the University of Portsmouth, UK.

Carl Ross’s websites have an enormous content on science, technology and education.