Module: Advanced FEA

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Advanced FEA
Module Code	MEC1054 (ITS: MM524)
Faculty	Engineering & Computing	School	Mechanical & Manufacturing Eng
NFQ level	9	Credit Rating	7.5

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

Section Breakdown
CRN	20385	Part of Term	Semester 2
Coursework	40%	Examination Weight	60%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	N
Resit Category	RC1	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Bryan Mac Donald	Module Teacher

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Report(s)	Advanced FEA Investigation (Non-linear analysis) – choice of modeling of bio-engineering problem or metal forming problem	40%	Once per semester
Formal Examination	End-of-Semester Final Examination	60%	End-of-Semester

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

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

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Indicative Reading List

Books:

Bryan, J Mac Donald,: 2007, Practical Stress Analysis with Finite Elements, 10, Glasnevin Publishing, Ireland, 350, 978-0955578106
M. J. Fagan: 1992, Finite element analysis, Prentice-Hall, England, 336, 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., 880, 978-0132416511

Articles:
None

Other Resources

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