This book is designed as a foundational textbook primarily for mechanical engineering studies. Through numerous problem scenarios, the processing and solution of tasks are explained in detail using suitable models and illustrative diagrams. Many worked examples and exercises from typical areas of mechanical engineering aim to provide a sense of the effects of forces and moments under different loads.

The author places great emphasis on the interpretation and understanding of the calculation results. This approach is intended to develop a comprehensive understanding of the relationships between loads and the resulting effects, extending beyond mere application of formulas. This is particularly important for aspiring engineers. The mathematical foundations of the presented solution methods are kept concise; thus, the textbook is well-suited for self-study in addition to lectures.

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Peter Selke studied and earned his doctorate at Humboldt University in Berlin and at Chemnitz University of Technology. From 1992 to 2009, he was a professor of Technical Mechanics, Machine Dynamics, and Finite Element Method at Wildau University of Applied Sciences.