Course content

Idealising of mechanical components. Boundary conditions. Element and system matrices for FE beams and plates. Compatible and non-compatible finite elements. Element requirements. Convergerce. Error estimate. Numerical integration. Isoparametric elements. Consistent load. Vibration. Heat transfer. Project assignment (weight 1/3): Programming the Finite element method. Modelling and analysis of mechanical products on the computer. Analysis result evaluation.

Learning outcome

Knowledge: Basic knowledge about structural design of mechanical systems. Basic theory for the Finite Element Method. Formulations for finite elements for heat transfer and stress analysis. Basic theory for dynamics and dynamic eigenvalue problems. Ability to program the finite element method.

Skills: Perform stress analysis using The Finite Element Method and analysis tools such as NX Nastran. Formulate and solve simple frame structures using the finite element method and manual calculations. Make conclusions based on analysis results.

General competence: Ability to report and present analyses, analysis results and conclusions.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, calculating problems, work in teams using FE-programs. Project teams are established at the beginning of the semester.

Recommended previous knowledge

This subject is based on the fundamental mechanical engineering courses in strength of materials, statics and dynamics being taught for the mechanical engineering students.

Course materials

Information is given at the start of the semester.

Credit reductions