Welcome to the pages of the Institute of Mechanics and Computational Mechanics (IBNM). The IBNM team is engaged in academic training within the Bachelor and Master programmes in civil engineering studies, and in doctoral education.

Our research activities focus on the physical and mathematical modelling, and the development of related robust and efficient computational algorithms for processes in continuum mechanics.

Relevance of mechanics for sustainability

We develop numerical simulation methods for the analysis and optimisation of processes in nature and technology. These methods are applied in various fields and thus contribute to the development of sustainable products and processes. Some examples are:

  • Material Fatigue
    Polariskop- und Betonmodell zur Überprüfung des Spannungszustandes einer Wandscheibe Polariskop- und Betonmodell zur Überprüfung des Spannungszustandes einer Wandscheibe Polariskop- und Betonmodell zur Überprüfung des Spannungszustandes einer Wandscheibe © IBNM 2022

    It is well known that civil engineering structures are subject to material fatigue due to multiphysical external effects. With very detailed physical models and suitable model reduction methods, we develop simulation procedures with which the material fatigue can be predicted already in the design phase. These simulations can also accompany the life cycle of the structures and support maintenance and repair measures. In this way, they can help to reduce the enormous and energy-intensive use of materials for a new building.

  • Tyre Mechanics
    Simulation eines rollenden Reifens auf rauem Untergrund Simulation eines rollenden Reifens auf rauem Untergrund Simulation eines rollenden Reifens auf rauem Untergrund © IBNM 2022

    A long-standing research topic at the institute is the development of simulation methods for the dynamics of rolling tyres. Such methods can be used to explain physical processes that can hardly be determined by technical measurements. This provides industry with methods to design their products more sustainably, e.g. with regard to the aspects of particle abrasion, environmental noise, energy consumption, etc.

  • Bone Mechanics
    Röntgenbild und Finite-Elemente-Modell sowie die daraus resultierende Änderung der Dichte eines Hüftknochens mit Prothese Röntgenbild und Finite-Elemente-Modell sowie die daraus resultierende Änderung der Dichte eines Hüftknochens mit Prothese Röntgenbild und Finite-Elemente-Modell sowie die daraus resultierende Änderung der Dichte eines Hüftknochens mit Prothese © IBNM 2022

    Also, biomechanics of bones has been a research area at the institute for a long time. Among other things, we focus on the longevity of joint implants. This enables us to support physicians in providing patients optimal care with implants that are as long-lasting as possible.

     

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Latest News of IBNM

ASCE and ASME nominate Prof. Michael Beer as Editor-in-Chief

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Michael Beer is the new Editor-in-Chief of the "ASCE-ASME Journal of Risk and Uncertainty in Engineering Systems, Part A: Civil Engineering" and the "ASCE-ASME Journal of Risk and Uncertainty in Engineering Systems Part B: Mechanical Engineering". The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) nominated the Director of the Institute for Risk and Reliability as of 21 December 2021.

Prof. Beer has already contributed to the development of the two sister journals since their foundation as Associate Editor, so that he was nominated by the previous Editor Prof. Bilal Ayyub as well as by the other Associate Editors and Managing Editors. After a process of several months involving the committees of ASME and ASCE, Beer received the appointment as Editor-in-Chief. The decisive factor was that he has made significant contributions to both professional associations and can lead the journal in a future-oriented manner. The search was for a person with a track record in both professional societies that would qualify him to serve as Editor-in-Chief.

"The sister journals specifically address the challenges of our time in the rapidly changing environment and society, and are closely related to the Grand Challenges and the Sustainable Development Goals," says Michael Beer. The journals broadly cover the field of quantifying uncertainties and risks in engineering fields. Risks and uncertainties are also considered in the journals in connection with the environment, economics and finance across disciplines. Sustainability and resilience are central themes.

ASCE and ASME are among the most important professional associations for civil and mechanical engineering worldwide, with a long tradition and the highest reputation. Even though they are anchored in the USA, they operate worldwide. Both associations have their own publishing houses through which they publish their journals. These journals are each among the most respected in the field and are subject to the highest standards of quality.

 

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