Study information

Advanced Finite Element Analysis (FEA) - 2024 entry

MODULE TITLEAdvanced Finite Element Analysis (FEA) CREDIT VALUE15
MODULE CODEENGM003 MODULE CONVENERProf Gino Hrkac (Coordinator)
DURATION: TERM 1 2 3
DURATION: WEEKS 11 0 0
Number of Students Taking Module (anticipated)
DESCRIPTION - summary of the module content

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is an important tool for mechanical engineers that is used in analysis, optimisation, and design of material and engineering components. This course will provide you with a deeper knowledge in FEA at the frontiers of modern engineering research. This module will guide you how to employ commercial FEA packages to solve advanced problems numerically and to understand the underlying mathematical challenges of solving such problems. You will learn about the concept of how FEA is derived from numerical methods, starting from FD to Galerkin FEA method. In Labs you will use MATLAB to solve numerical engineering problems e.g. heat equation, stress distribution etc.

AIMS - intentions of the module

This module aims to:

  • Introduce advanced topics in finite element methods and how to use this knowledge in analysis, design and optimization of complex engineering problems.
  • Introduce the fundamental of continuum mechanics and how we use it in advanced nonlinear problems.
  • Provide detailed understanding of geometric and materials nonlinearity such as contact analysis, hyper-elasticity, elasto-plasticity.
  • Provide detailed knowledge of computer programming for commercial finite element packages (Ansys), and how to use it to solve advanced problems.

 

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILOs) (see assessment section below for how ILOs will be assessed)

Programmes that are accredited by the Engineering Council are required to meet Accreditation of Higher Education  

Programmes (AHEP4) Learning Outcomes.  

The Engineering Council AHEP4 Learning Outcomes covered on this module are shown in brackets.

On successful completion of this module you should be able to: 

Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:   

1 - Understand the fundamental concepts of the theory of material nonlinearity: hyperelasticity and plasticity. (M1, M2, M3)  

2 - Understand the fundamental concepts of the theory of geometric nonlinearity such as contact problems. (M1, M2, M3)  

3 - Formulate the nonlinear problems mathematically and how to implement them numerically. (M1, M2, M3)  

4 - Make informed decisions on choosing appropriate material model for different type of nonlinear problems. (M1 & M3)  

5 - Drive the derivation of a mathematical expressions describing the stiffness matrices. (M1 & M3)  

6 - Obtain the necessity programming skills which is necessary for implementation of nonlinearity in advanced finite element models (M1 & M3)  

7 - Use numerical methods and commercial finite element tools to solve and analyse complex engineering problems. (M1 & M2) 
8 - Obtain broad knowledge about available commercial FEM tools and the frequency and reason of using of a specific tool in different industries (M1, M2, M3)  

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:   

9 - Analyse and critique the numerical solutions and check the validity of them. (M1 & M2)   

Personal and Key Transferable/ Employment Entrepreneurship Skills and Knowledge:  

10 - Obtain study and research skills, time management and analysis skills as well as communication skills (M1 & M2)

 

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

1: Understand the fundamental concepts of the theory of material nonlinearity: hyperelasticity and plasticity;

2: Understand the fundamental concepts of the theory of geometric nonlinearity such as contact problems;

3: Formulate the nonlinear problems mathematically and how to implement them numerically;

4: Make informed decisions on choosing appropriate material model for different type of nonlinear problems;

5: Be able to derive mathematical expressions describing the stiffness matrices;

6: Obtain the necessity programming skills which is necessary for implementation of nonlinearity in advanced finite element models;

7: Use numerical methods and commercial finite element tools to solve and analyse complex engineering problems;

8: Analyse and critique the numerical solutions and check the validity of them;

9: Obtain study and research skills, time management and analysis skills as well as communication skills;

10: Obtain broad knowledge about available commercial FEM tools and the frequency and reason of using of a specific tool in different industries.

LEARNING AND TEACHING
LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS (given in hours of study time)
Scheduled Learning & Teaching Activities 33 Guided Independent Study 117 Placement / Study Abroad 0
DETAILS OF LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS
Category Hours of study time Description
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities 22 Lectures
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities 11 Tutorials
Guided Independent Study 117  

 

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 0
DETAILS OF SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Form of Assessment % of Credit Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
Lab Assessment 1 50   All  
Lab Assessment 2 50   All  

 

DETAILS OF RE-ASSESSMENT (where required by referral or deferral)
Original Form of Assessment Form of Re-assessment ILOs Re-assessed Time Scale for Re-assessment
Lab Assessment 1 Lab Assessment  All Referral/Deferral Period
Lab Assessment 2 Lab Assessment  All Referral/Deferral Period

 

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 7.5
PRE-REQUISITE MODULES None
CO-REQUISITE MODULES None
NQF LEVEL (FHEQ) 7 AVAILABLE AS DISTANCE LEARNING No
ORIGIN DATE Tuesday 19th March 2024 LAST REVISION DATE Friday 22nd March 2024
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.