Module: Finite Element Analysis

Module Specifications.

Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025

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Date posted: September 2024

Module Title	Finite Element Analysis
Module Code	MM421 (ITS) / MEC1039 (Banner)
Faculty	Engineering & Computing	School	Mechanical & Manufacturing Eng
Module Co-ordinator	Bryan Mac Donald
Module Teachers	-
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	7.5
Pre-requisite	Not Available
Co-requisite	Not Available
Compatibles	Not Available
Incompatibles	Not Available

Repeat examination

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.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full-time hours per semester
Lecture	36	3 Formal 1 hour lectures per week
Laboratory	36	Studio Work - Learning to use FEA software 3 hours per week
Directed learning	12	Weekly assigned tasks - homework
Independent Study	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%

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

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories: Resit category 1: A resit is available for both* components of the module. Resit category 2: No resit is available for a 100% continuous assessment module. Resit category 3: No resit is available for the continuous assessment component where there is a continuous assessment and examination element.
* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a Continuous Assessment/Examination split; where the module is 100% continuous assessment, there will also be a resit of the assessment
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/,