Modelling of Engineering Systems - 2020 entry

This module is designed to introduce second year undergraduates to mathematical modelling techniques for engineering systems, and their implementation using scientific computing in python.

The model builds on quantative skills developed in the first year module “Engineering Mathematics and Scientific Computing”, and puts them into practice by solving real engineering challenges in material science, civil structures, fluid dynamics and electronic systems.

The module uses problem based learning, so material will be introduced as needed in the context of engineering challenges.

1. To strengthen mathematical and computational skills for solving mathematical challenges arising in the modelling of engineering systems.

2. To acquire a large variety of numerical and mathematical techniques to be used for those engineering problems.

3. To build practical skills in translating engineering problem statements into mathematical models / questions, and then solving the problem by writing a software programme.

4. Understand the concept of numerical approximation, and learn methods to validate and test your mathematical formulation and programme.

1: Identifying types of differential equations;

2: Euler and Runga-Kutta methods for linear and nonlinear initial value problems (IVPs);

3: Solving Higher-order IVPs;

4: Shooting Method for Boundary Value Problems;

5: Implicit Finite Difference for Boundary Value Problems

6: Solutions to Large System of Equations / Matrix Methods;

7: Fourier Analysis and Transforms;

8: Separation of Variables and Fourier for PDEs

9: Finite Difference for PDEs;

10: Design and structuring of code;

11: Commenting and readability of code;

11: Testing, debugging and version control.

As the module is assessed by the examination and coursework, the ref/def assessment will be by examination. The candidates will be awarded the ref/def examination mark combined with the original coursework mark.

Reading list for this module: