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Department of Mechanical Engineering, Unit Catalogue 2009/10


ME40057: Finite element analysis

Click here for further information Credits: 6
Click here for further information Level: Masters
Click here for further information Period: Semester 1
Click here for further information Assessment: CW 100%
Click here for further informationSupplementary Assessment: ME40057 Re-assessment (where allowed by programme regulations)
Click here for further information Requisites: Before taking this unit you must take ME10304 and take ME10305
Description: Aims:
To develop the students' appreciation of the mathematical basis of the finite-element method. To develop 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 linear and nonlinear static problems.

Skills:
Facilitated - intellectual, practical, key.

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 and nonlinear stress analysis. Pre and post processing. Model definition of 1D, 2D, 3D representations, symmetry, choice of element type, mesh density requirements. Model validation by comparison with exact analytical solution. Examples in linear and nonlinear analysis.
NB. Programmes and units are subject to change at any time, in accordance with normal University procedures.