Module Catalogue 2024/25

CEG8309 : Finite Element Analysis in Structural Mechanics (Inactive)

CEG8309 : Finite Element Analysis in Structural Mechanics (Inactive)

  • Inactive for Year: 2024/25
  • Module Leader(s): Professor Peter Gosling
  • Owning School: Engineering
  • Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters

Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.

Semester 2 Credit Value: 20
ECTS Credits: 10.0
European Credit Transfer System
Pre-requisite

Modules you must have done previously to study this module

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co-Requisite

Modules you need to take at the same time

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

The aim of the module is to enable successful candidates to understand fundamental principles of the finite element technologies, to have an appreciation of some advanced aspects and to demonstrate their application through the solution of a number of simulations.

Summary:
The finite element method is described in the framework of structural mechanics, providing displacement, stress and strain solutions. The classical formulation of the finite element descriptions are used and applied to a number of benchmark problems. Detailed theoretical developments are also presented and assessed.

Outline Of Syllabus

Introduction to fundamental principles of the finite element method in the context of structural mechanics:
Displacement-based elements for structural mechanics:
Co-ordinate transformation:
Numerical errors and convergence:
Introduction to plates and shells:
Introduction to finite elements in dynamics and vibrations:
Stress-stiffening and buckling:
Introduction to geometric and material non-linear problems.

Learning Outcomes

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

* Place the finite element method in the context of structural analysis and structural mechanics.
* An understanding of the concept of minimum potential energy and equilibrium in 3-D.
* An introduction to the derivation of expressions describing the stiffness matrices and equivalent nodal load vectors for simple linear plane-stress finite elements.
* An understanding of co-ordinate transformation and its use in the finite element method.
* Development of an understanding of more advanced concepts in structural analysis (plate bending, dynamics and vibrations) within the context of the finite element method.
* Development of an introductory understanding of non-linear problems, including geometric non-linearity and elastoplasticity.
* An understanding of the significance, calculation and interpretation of numerical errors and convergence critieria.
* Application of the finite element method using a commercial FEA code(e.g. ABAQUS) to solve linear, non-linear, static, and dyamic problems in structural mechanics.

Intended Skill Outcomes

The module should enable the students to become proficient in:

* Study skills - research, time management, information processing
* Communication skills - verbal (inquiry and explanation) written (calculations), visual/graphical
(diagrams).
* Evaluative skills - manual.
* Workplace skills - group and team working.

Teaching Methods

Teaching Activities
Category Activity Number Length Student Hours Comment
Guided Independent StudyAssessment preparation and completion280:3014:00Revision for exam
Guided Independent StudyAssessment preparation and completion13:003:00Exam
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesLecture281:0028:00N/A
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesSmall group teaching221:0022:00Tutorials
Guided Independent StudyIndependent study1133:00133:00Includes background reading and reading lecture notes for a full understanding of material
Total200:00
Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Specialist knowledge and understanding are primarily imparted via lecture classes. Students are encouraged and expected to learn through independent reading and solutions to small group teaching problems.They are supported in this by the provision of an extensive set of notes, and small group teaching sessions.

Reading Lists

Assessment Methods

The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners

Exams
Description Length Semester When Set Percentage Comment
Written Examination1802A100Unseen written exam Part A multiple-choice. Part B extended questions.
Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The content of the course is technical and covers quite a lot of ground. The knowledge gained in the module is expected to be understanding and application. Therefore, the module is assessed via exam which has components of theory and practice.

Timetable

Past Exam Papers

General Notes

N/A

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Disclaimer

The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2024 academic year.

In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described.

Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback. Module information for the 2025/26 entry will be published here in early-April 2025. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.