Introduction to Structural Mechanics

This lecture covers the basics of structural mechanics, including tower challenge review, truss and beam structures, force systems in 2D, deformable bodies, mechanical equilibrium, external forces, and solving partial differential equations. The instructor emphasizes the importance of effective communication channels, iterative design, prototyping, and flexibility in the design process. The lecture also delves into materials, geometries, and behaviors of metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites under different loading conditions.