Forensic Engineering


Introduction to Forensic Engineering

Forensic engineering involves applying engineering principles to investigate failures or performance issues. Forensic engineers examine products, materials, structures, and components that have failed or malfunctioned, leading to personal injury or property damage.

This course equips students with essential skills for investigating these failures, preparing reports, and providing recommendations to clients. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of structural failures, investigative techniques, and the role of forensic engineers in legal proceedings.

Students Learning Outcomes (SLO)

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

  • Identify the basics of construction and reasons for failure.
  • Develop approaches to investigating failure scenarios.
  • Analyze and collect data and prepare the case for presentation.
  • Determine how material characteristics may contribute to structural failure.

Class material and will help to achieve the above-listed objectives.

Schedule Lecture Topics

  • Introduction to Forensic Engineering
  • Types of Forensic Engineering
  • Components of Forensic Engineering
  • Accidents
  • Reconstructions
  • Typical Clients and Projects
  • Qualifications of a Forensic Engineer
  • Technical Competency
  • Knowledge of Legal Procedures
  • Detective Skills
  • Communication Skills of a Forensic Engineer
  • Historical Context (Trial and Error Traditions)
  • Definition of Failure
  • Failure Inspection
  • Importance of Forensic Inspection
  • Measurements, Planning, Construction, Deterioration
  •  
  • Forensic Inspection of Engineering Structures
  • Investigation Points
  • Examples of Forensic Engineering
  • Investigation
  • Analysis
  • Field Exploration and Subsurface Conditions
  • Remediation Program Monitoring
  • External Condition Survey
  • Packer Test
  • Investigation Reports
  • General Goals of Forensic Engineering Investigation
  • Steps Involved in Forensic Engineering Investigation
  • Structural Failure
  • Investigation Process
  • Documenting Visual Examination
  • Types of Cracking
  • Deficiencies in Design
  • Deficiencies in Detailing
  • Procedural and Contractual Issues
  • Failure Hypothesis
  • Conclusions

The course will take place on Saturdays and Sundays for three weeks online, with a Certificate of Completion provided upon completion of the course.

Days: Saturdays and Sundays
Dates: TBA
Time: 9:00 am - 11:00 am EDT
Price:
Location: Online

Registration link coming soon.

 

Contact Information

Dr. Azhar Mahmood
Coordinator
263 Academy Street, Room S605C
Jersey City, NJ 07306
(201) 360-4259
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