Module Catalogue 2026/27

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

This module provides students with a solid foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of the finite element method (FEM) and its application to structural, geotechnical, and soil-structure interaction analysis. It covers the basic features of constitutive models for soil behaviour, as well as the principles of numerical modelling. Students will gain an understanding of different soil models, their advantages and limitations, and how to select appropriate soil parameters. Through problem-solving exercises, computational simulations, and the use of structural and geotechnical FEM software, students will bridge the gap between theory and practice, focusing on the integration of soil-structure interaction in analysis.

Outline Of Syllabus

1. Introduction to FEM and structural analysis: Mathematical foundations, nodes, elements,
shape functions, virtual displacement, external/internal work, and FEM formulation for
linear-static structural mechanics.
2. Material models: elasticity, yield surfaces (Tresca, Von-Mises, Mohr-Coulomb), hardening
models, plastic flow rules, and the selection of material parameters.
3. Direct stiffness methods: Structural analysis, implementation using MATLAB/Python,
and simulation with commercial software (e.g., ABAQUS/ANSYS).
4. Soil-structure interaction and geotechnical modelling: constitutive modelling methods for
geotechnical design, using industry-standard finite element software to develop numerical
models of soil-structure systems.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

* Apply finite element (FE) to simulate complex structural mechanics problems, perform detailed structural analysis, and interpret results using advanced FE software to assess material behaviour and structural performance under various loading conditions. [M1, M2, M3]
* Critically review the key features, advantages, and limitations of commonly used material models, and select the most appropriate material parameters for analysis to ensure a suitable fit for the specific problem being modelled. [M2, M3, M4]
* Use finite element software to analyse a wide range of geotechnical problems, including soil-structure interaction scenarios such as retaining walls, foundations subjected to seismic loading, and the impact of soil properties on structural stability and performance.
* Explain the limitations and assumptions inherent in FE when providing approximate solutions, and be able to recognise potential errors, simplifications, and sources of uncertainty in the results to ensure the reliability of the results drawn from the analysis. [M2, M16, M17]

Intended Skill Outcomes

By the end of the module, it is expected students will be able to:

Apply finite element method and appropriate material models for the analysis and design of soil-structure interaction [M2, M3].

Critically evaluate factors influencing numerical analysis outcomes, such as model assumptions, boundary conditions, mesh quality, and material properties, and assess their impact on result accuracy and reliability [M2, M3, M6].

Demonstrate evaluation skills through manual analysis, supported by effective research, time management and teamwork [M12, M15, M16].

Communicate findings through verbal, written, and visual means, including soil-structure documentation and finite element outputs [M17].

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The module offers an immersive learning experience blending lectures, tutorials and practical sessions. Students are expected to learn through guided learning, independent reading and solutions to tutorial problems. Teaching and learning are by a combination of presentations, directed reading and through the use of specially prepared notes to explain the principles of numerical modelling in structural and geotechnical engineering, small group teaching exercises, guided tutorials on finite element software and computer practical sessions provide real-world examples of the theory presented in the lectures. These sessions provide opportunities to develop numerical analysis skills and directly contribute to assessment.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The knowledge gained in the module is expected to be an understanding of the principles of finite element analysis and their application to structural and geotechnical engineering applications, using commercially available software as examples. A formal examination will be used to assess understanding of theoretical aspects of finite element and their application. The coursework will develop students' understanding of the constitutive and numerical aspects of soil structure design of earth structures and enhance their technical skills in undertaking parametric studies to further evaluate modelling outputs. The AHEP learning outcomes assessed by this module are [M1, M2, M3, M4, M16, M17].

General Notes

N/A