Study information

Structures & Finite Element Analysis - 2021 entry

MODULE TITLEStructures & Finite Element Analysis CREDIT VALUE15
MODULE CODEENG3009 MODULE CONVENERProf Tim Dodwell (Coordinator)
DURATION: TERM 1 2 3
DURATION: WEEKS
Number of Students Taking Module (anticipated)
DESCRIPTION - summary of the module content

This module will provide a hands on introduction to Finite Element Analysis for modelling complex structures and materials. It will provide a elementary foundation in the mathematical foundations of finite element analysis, building on the stiffness matrix approaches introduce in "Modelling of Engineering Systems", however it focus on an introduce to using finite element analysis using a commerical finite element package (ANSYS). The module will be 100% with a series of coursework deliverables, two short worksheet courseworks, which test fundamental understanding, one larger coursework, testing how FEM can be used for engineering design.

AIMS - intentions of the module
INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILOs) (see assessment section below for how ILOs will be assessed)

 

ILO #

Intended Learning Outcome

AHEP* ILO - MEng

AHEP ILO - BEng

ILO #1            

 Understand finite element analysis of a bar, truss and plane strain triangles.

SM2m, SM3m, SM4m, SM5m, EA3m, EA6m, D4m, D6m, G3m

SM2p, SM3p, EA3p,

D4p, D6p, G3p

ILO #2

Understand the key concepts of model validation, finite element approximation and convergence.

    

ILO #3

Understand the basic theory, and mathematical assumptions of bar, plate, shell and solid elements.

    

ILO #4

Understand basic solution strategies for linear, nonlinear, implicit, explicit problems and which would be used for each type of problem.

    

ILO #5

Be able setup linear analysis for complex structure, including those imported from CAD packages.

 D7m  

ILO #6

Be able to perform a simple eigenvalue analysis, for a structural stability or dynamics problem.

         

    

ILO #7

Understand and quantify the modelling assumptions made, when solving real world problems

   

 SM6m  

ILO #8

Improve Writtening Skills and report presentation skills

    

ILO #9

Confident using advanced commerical software

   EP4p

*Engineering Council Accreditation of Higher Education Programmes (AHEP) ILOs for MEng and BEng Degrees


 


 

SYLLABUS PLAN - summary of the structure and academic content of the module

1: Bar, Beam, Plate and Shell Elements: basic concepts, derivations and approximations;

2: Shape Functions, Meshes and Quadrature;

3: Overview of Finite Element Procedure;

Element Stiffness Matrix to Global Stiffness Matrix, load vector etc;

4: Solutions to linear, nonlinear and eigenvalue problems;

5: Methods for Validation;

6: Applying Different Material Models: Isotropic, Anisotropic Elasticity + simple nonlinear;

7: Applying / Assessing Failure Criteria.

LEARNING AND TEACHING
LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS (given in hours of study time)
Scheduled Learning & Teaching Activities 48 Guided Independent Study 102 Placement / Study Abroad
DETAILS OF LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS
Category Hours of study time Description
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities 12 Lectures
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities 12 Tutorials
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities 24 Computer FEM labs
Guided Independent Study 102 Reading lecture notes; working exercises

 

ASSESSMENT
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT - for feedback and development purposes; does not count towards module grade
SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT (% of credit)
Coursework 100 Written Exams 0 Practical Exams
DETAILS OF SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Form of Assessment % of Credit Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
Coursework - Introduction to Finite Element Analysis Worksheet 25 10 hours 1-2, 4, 7-9  
Coursework - Large Finite Element - Design Challenge 50 20 hours 1-2, 4-9  
Coursework - Worksheet 1 - Python FEM progrmaming 25 10 hours 1, 2, 8  

 

DETAILS OF RE-ASSESSMENT (where required by referral or deferral)
RE-ASSESSMENT NOTES

 

RESOURCES
INDICATIVE LEARNING RESOURCES - The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of
information that you are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Convener

Reading list for this module:

There are currently no reading list entries found for this module.

CREDIT VALUE 15 ECTS VALUE
PRE-REQUISITE MODULES None
CO-REQUISITE MODULES None
NQF LEVEL (FHEQ) 6 AVAILABLE AS DISTANCE LEARNING No
ORIGIN DATE Friday 8th January 2021 LAST REVISION DATE Friday 8th January 2021
KEY WORDS SEARCH None Defined

Please note that all modules are subject to change, please get in touch if you have any questions about this module.