| CODE | MEC3201 | ||||||||||||
| TITLE | Finite Element Analysis | ||||||||||||
| UM LEVEL | 03 - Years 2, 3, 4 in Modular Undergraduate Course | ||||||||||||
| ECTS CREDITS | 5 | ||||||||||||
| DEPARTMENT | Mechanical Engineering | ||||||||||||
| DESCRIPTION | This study-unit introduces theoretical and practical notions necessary to use finite element analysis (FEA) in mechanical engineering. Theoretical considerations, which are the basis for understanding the method, are presented, and computer software is used to illustrate the procedures and best practices in applying the method. Study-unit Aims: The study-unit aims to provide a basic knowledge on both theoretical and practical aspects on the use of the finite element method for analysis in mechanical engineering applications. Focus is made on the underlying principles and their application to mechanical engineering problems (i.e. stress analysis, heat transfer) from first principles and by using computer software. Learning Outcomes: 1. Knowledge & Understanding: By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Explain the fundamental principles of the finite element method for mechanical engineering applications; - Explain the following concepts: discretisation, meshing, symmetry and two dimensional approximations, i.e. plane strain, plane stress and axisymmetry; - Describe different types of elements and explain what each type can and cannot model; - Describe (with the aid of notes) the formulation of one and two dimensional link elements, beam elements and solid structural elements; - Explain the process of meshing and application of boundary conditions. 2. Skills: By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to analyse basic mechanical engineering problems using the finite element method without the aid of computer software by: - Selecting the appropriate element type; - Applying previously derived element equations; - Modelling the loads and defining boundary conditions; - Generating the set of simultaneous equations. The student will also be able to analyse small but real mechanical engineering problems using finite element analysis software by: - Creating the geometrical model; - Meshing with the correct element type; - Applying the correct loads and boundary conditions; - Specifying the appropriate material model and analysis type; - Generating a valid solution; - Reviewing and drawing conclusions from the analysis' results. Main Text/s and any supplementary readings: Main Texts: Finite element analysis, theory and practice – M.J. Fagan. Supplementary Readings: Basic principles of the finite element method – K.M. Entwistle. |
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| ADDITIONAL NOTES | Pre-requiste Study-unit: MEC1101, MEC1401, MEC3308 | ||||||||||||
| STUDY-UNIT TYPE | Lecture, Ind Study & Ind Online Learning | ||||||||||||
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| LECTURER/S | Pierluigi Mollicone |
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The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints. Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice. It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2024/5. It may be subject to change in subsequent years. |
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