Registry

Module Specifications

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

Module Title	Numerical Methods and Finite Element Analysis
Module Code	MM524
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	MM421
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

This module introduces more advanced finite element analysis concept to engineering students who are already familiar with the application of the finite element method. The focus of this module is on advanced concepts such as non-linear materials and dynamic analyses. A theoretical understanding of 2D and 3D elements is covered and students are required to demonstrate that they can confidently formulate problems using these elements. Practical case studies are used to illustrate advanced analyses involving non-linear materials, contact, dynamic loads etc. Students are required to carry out a project which involves using advanced modeling methods in order to arrive at a solution. A choice of either a bio-engineering or a metal forming project is available.

Learning Outcomes

1. Apply the theoretical foundation of the finite element method to the solution of more advanced engineering stress problems.
2. Be able to formulate and solve a finite element analysis for simple 2D and 3D stress analysis problems.
3. Use commercially available FE software to solve advanced non-linear stress analysis problems.
4. Critically assess the results and accuracy from a FE analysis.
5. Be able to appropriately apply advanced concepts such as sub-modelling, sub-structuring, contact algorithms, multipoint constraints etc in a FE analysis.

Workload	Full-time hours per semester
*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Lab	36	1 x 3 hour studio session per week learning to use/apply FEA software
Lecture	36	3 x 1 hour formal lectures per week
Directed learning	12	Homework assignment/investigation
Independent learning time	101	No Description
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

Review of Basic FEA.
Infinitesimal strain (i.e. Linear) FEA and its inherent assumptions and limitations. Review of the minimum potential energy method. Overview of the FE procedure..

Elements & Shape Functions.
2-D beam elements, Axisymmetric elements, 2D plane stress and plane strain elements, Shell Elements, 3D solid elements.

Material Models.
Non-linear elastic models, Inelastic material models, elasto-plastic material models, effect of strain rate, visco-elastic models, specialized models – concrete, composites, shape memory etc..

Modeling & Meshing.
Review of basic modeling procedures, introduction to sub-modeling and sub-structuring, use of coordinate systems to simplify modeling, procedures to ensure a quality mesh, advanced mesh convergence issues..

Boundary Conditions & Loads.
Non linear loads and boundary conditions, contact problems, dynamic loads, multipoint constraints and coupled node sets..

Solution of the Problem.
Practical and theoretical overview of linear and non-linear structural solutions: static, modal, harmonic, transient etc. Introduction to the explicit method of solution..

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. Case studies from research work and engineering journals are also introduced..

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	40%	Examination Weight	60%

Course Work Breakdown
Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Report (s) (written / oral)	Advanced FEA Investigation (Non-linear analysis) – choice of modeling of bio-engineering problem or metal forming problem	40%	Once per semester

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, Ireland, 978-0955578106
M. J. Fagan: 1992, Finite element analysis, Prentice-Hall, England, 978-0582022478
Saeed Moaveni: 2008, Finite Element Analysis Theory and Application with ANSYS: Theory and Applications with ANSYS, 3rd, Pearson, Upper Saddle River, N.J., 978-0132416511

Other Resources

771, Website, University of Alberta, 0, Online Ansys Tutorials from the University of Alberta, http://www.mece.ualberta.ca/Tutorials/ansys/,

Array

Programme or List of Programmes

BMEDV

M.Eng. in Biomedical Engineering

BSSA

Study Abroad (DCU Business School)

BSSAO

Study Abroad (DCU Business School)

CAMC

GCert CA Mechanical & Manufacturing Eng