Department of Mechanical Engineering, Unit Catalogue 2006/07

ME40057 Finite element analysis

Credits: 6

Level: Masters

Semester: 1

Assessment: EX50CW50

Requisites:

Before taking this unit you must take ME30030

Aims:
* To develop the students' appreciation of the mathematical basis of the finite-element method.
* To develop the critical use of commercial finite-element software.
* To develop finite element methods for the study of vibrations.
Learning Outcomes:
After taking this unit the student should be able to:
* Understand the mathematical formulation of the finite element method when applied to linear problems.
* Use a commercially available finite-element package to analyse linear stress-strain problems in solid bodies.
* Critically assess the approximate solutions so produced.
* Use a commercially available element package to model vibration problems.
Skills:
Problem solving; numeracy; IT; written communication; working independently.
Content:
Introduction to finite elements as applied to a continuum; displacement formulation. shape functions; numerical integration; Hands-on use of a commercially available finite element package to solve problems in linear stress analysis. Pre and post processing. Model definition if 1D, 2D, 3D representations, symmetry, choice of element type, mesh density requirements. Model validation by comparison with exact analytical solution. Examples in modal analysis.

University | Catalogues for 2006/07