Registry

Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2012 - 2013
Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title	Finite Element Analysis
Module Code	MM421
School	School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Semester 1: Bryan MacDonald Semester 2: Bryan MacDonald Autumn: Bryan MacDonald
Module Teacher	Bryan MacDonald
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	7.5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

This module introduces engineering students to the finite element method. It illustrates how finite element methods may be used as part of the engineering design cycle. The focus of this module is on relatively simple linear finite element analyses for stress analysis problems. A theoretical understanding of simple 1D and beam finite element analyses is covered for infinitesimal strain. Hands on experience is covered via practical case studies and using a commercially available FE software.

Learning Outcomes

1. Explain the mathematical methods used to formulate a finite element analysis.
2. Be able to formulate and solve a finite element analysis for a simple 1-D stress analysis problem.
3. Be able to formulate and solve a finite element analysis for a beam analysis problem.
4. Use a commercially available FE software to solve linear (infinitesimal strain) stress analysis problems.
5. Critically assess the results and accuracy from a FE analysis.
6. Explain how FEA fits into the engineering design process and be able to apply it appropriately.

Workload	Full-time hours per semester
*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Lecture	36	3 Formal 1 hour lectures per week
Lab	36	Studio Work - Learning to use FEA software 3 hours per week
Directed learning	12	Weekly assigned tasks - homework
Independent learning time	101	Student Indepedant learning time
Total Workload: 185

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Introduction.
What is the finite element method, Why is it used, how does FEA fit into the design process.

Review of Stress Analysis.
Units and dimensional analysis, material properties, stress and strain, yielding and plastic deformation.

Overview of FE theory.
Changing a physical model to a mathematical model, direct methods, minimum potential energy methods..

Practical FE procedures.
Element selection, material model selection, geometry considerations, loading considerations, use of appropriate boundary conditions.

Elements & Shape Functions.
1-D linear truss elements, 1-D quadratic truss elements, 2-D Truss Elements, 1-D and 2-D beam elements..

Material Models.
Linear elastic models.

Modelling & Meshing.
Truss & beam assumptions, planar assumptions, thin shell assumptions, simplification using symmetry, defeaturing, model cleanup after CAD translation, meshing considerations, mesh convergence.

Boundary Conditions & Loads.
Overview of static loads and appropriate boundary conditions, implications of assuming static loads..

Solution of the Problem.
Practical and theoretical overview of linear static solutions.

Post Processing & Validation.
Overview of different methods for presentation/analysis of results, model verification and validation..

Case Studies.
All of the above are illustrated with the assistance of case studies carried out during laboratory sessions and via project work using ANSYS FE software..

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	40%	Examination Weight	60%

Course Work Breakdown
Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assignment	Solving a problem using FEA and communicating findings in a professional engineering report	40%	Sem 1 End

Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; 1 = A resit is available for all components of the module 2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module 3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 1

Indicative Reading List

Bryan, J Mac Donald,: 2007, Practical Stress Analysis with Finite Elements, 10, Glasnevin Publishing, Dublin, Ireland, 978-0955578106
M. J. Fagan: 1992, Finite element analysis: Theory and Practice, Prentice-Hall, England, 978-0582022478
Saeed Moaveni: 0, Finite Element Analysis Theory and Application with ANSYS: Theory and Applications with ANSYS, Pearson, Upper Saddle River, N.J., 978-0132416511

Other Resources

639, Website, University of Alberta, 0, Ansys on-line Tutorials, http://www.mece.ualberta.ca/Tutorials/ansys/,

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