Learning objectives
The course introduces the basic concepts of an computational method of analysis increasingly used in mechanical design. The aim is to have the student apply the method to practical cases and appreciate its potential and limitations.
Prerequisites
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Course unit content
Matrix notation and matrix operations, review of continuum mechanics, Principle of virtual work; plane structs: stiffness matrix of the rod element and assembly of the stiffness matrix of the structure; beam element: exact and approximate solutions, transformation matrix, frames; plane stress, plane strain and axisymmetric 2D elements, rectangular and triangular elements, isoparametric elements, numerical integration; linear elasticity, meshing criteria, boundary conditions, assembly and solution, analysis of results
Full programme
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Bibliography
Lecture notes.
Provided during the course.
Reference books available at the Engineering Faculty bibliotheque
F. Cesari “ Introduzione al metodo degli elementi finiti”, Pitagora Editrice Bologna, 1989
R. D. Cook “Finite Element Modelling for Stress Analysis”, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
O. C. Zienkiewicz, R. L. Taylor, J. Z. Zhu, “The Finite Element Method: Its Basis and Fundamentals”, 6th Ed., Butterworth-Heinemann
O. C. Zienkiewicz, R. L. Taylor, “The Finite Element Method for Solid and Structural Mechanics”, 6th Ed., Butterworth-Heinemann
Teaching methods
Class lectures and exercises.
Lab activity guide the student in learning the use of professional finite element code and its application to practical cases.
Assessment methods and criteria
The exam consists of a written test and the oral discussion of a Lab activity on a practical application of the finite element method.
Other information
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