Module: Advanced FEA

Module Specifications.

Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025

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Date posted: September 2024

Module Title	Advanced FEA
Module Code	MM524 (ITS) / MEC1054 (Banner)
Faculty	Engineering & Computing	School	Mechanical & Manufacturing Eng
Module Co-ordinator	Bryan Mac Donald
Module Teachers	-
NFQ level	9	Credit Rating	7.5
Pre-requisite	Not Available
Co-requisite	Not Available
Compatibles	Not Available
Incompatibles	Not Available

None
Array

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.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full-time hours per semester
Laboratory	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 Study	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%

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

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, 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/,