Course content

The purpose of the subject is to establish methodology for finite element modelling and analysis of structures, with respect to design according to limit state principles, with due account of relevant loads due to waves, wind, earthquakes, ice and accidental loads such as actions from ship collisions, grounding, falling objects, explosions, and fires. Analysis of damaged structures is an important aspect of modern design practice and is included. Topics: Introduction to nonlinear static and dynamic analysis with the finite element method of structures with geometric nonlinear and elasto-plastic behaviour as well as analysis based on simplified plastic methods. Modelling and analysis of beams, frames, stiffened panels and shells as structural components as well as structural systems in the form of ships, platforms and offshore wind turbines. Assessment of error sources in the structural analysis, dependent upon the mathematical modelling of loads and structure as well as discretization and round-off errors in the finite element model.

Learning outcome

After completion of this subject the candidate should have acquired competence in the research front within selected topics of structural analysis and an ability to formulate and solve complex problems within this field. Knowledge: The candidate should have a deep insight into non-linear analysis with the Finite Element Method of structures subjected to various environmental loads as well as accidental loads, including assessment of the accuracy of the calculation results. Skills: Competence to independently carry out nonlinear structural analysis by means of existing software, for example ABAQUS, LS DYNA, or USFOS, and critically assess the results of the analysis. - formulate research goals within this subject area. - carry out literature search and acquire knowledge from scientific articles. - carry our peer review of scientific articles within the subject area. General competence: Ability to reason in a critical manner and utilize this ability to ensure quality control and further development of the knowledge present in the scientific literature as well as to assess where the research front lies in the relevant subject.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures. Exercises. A small project. Minimum three students must register if the course is to be taught. If there are few students, the examination form may be changed from a written to an oral exam. To pass the course a score of at least 70 percent is required. The content and required previous knowledge varies from year to year and is decided depending on the participants.

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

TMR4190 Finite Element Method, TMR4205 Buckling and Collapse, and TMR4215 Sea Loads or equivalent background; depending on the focus area.

Course materials

The required reading consists of parts of the following textbooks: Moan, T., "Finite Element Modelling and Analysis of Marine Structures", September 2003, Dept. of Marine Technology, NTNU. Cook, R.D. et al., "Concepts and Applications of Finite Element Analysis", Wiley, 1989. Crisfield, M.A., "Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis of Solids and Structures", Vol. 1, 1991, "Nonlinear Analysis of Offshore Structures" by B. Skallerud and J. Amdahl, Research Studies Press, UK, 2002, Faltinsen, O.M.: Hydrodynamics of High-Speed Marine Vehicles, Cambridge Univ. Press, 2005, Juncher-Jensen, J.: Load and Global Response of Ships, Elsevier, 2001. Relevant lecture notes and papers.

Credit reductions