Institute

The Institute of Structural Mechanics and Dynamics in Aerospace Engineering (ISD) is one of 12 institutes of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering and Geodesy at the University of Stuttgart.

Founded in 1959 under Professor Argyris, it became a world renowned facility on the topic of structural analysis using the finite element method. In 1988, Prof. Dr.-Ing. B.-H. Kröplin succeeded as director of the institute. The aeroelasticity department was headed by Prof. Dr.-Ing. D. Dinkler since 1989, who left the ISD in 1996 and is now associated with the Technical University Braunschweig.

The ISD conducts teaching for the approximately 1200 students of the faculty in mechanics, structural analysis and dynamics. Its research in theory and application is focused on biomechanics, structural mechanics, mechanics of materials, material modelling and measuring technology and actively participates in collaborative research centers (Sonderforschungsbereiche, "SFB") and postgraduate programmes (Graduiertenkollegs).

Results from the ISD's research experience build the foundation for teaching and further education activities as well as for research and development projects in collaboration with industry partners.

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Kröplin retired in April of 2010. Prof. Dr.-Ing. Staudacher (ILA) assumed the role of acting head until 2013, when Prof. Dr.-Ing. Reichel (ILS) took this position.

In August 2017, Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Tim Ricken started as new director of the ISD.