2020/21 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue

MECH5680M Advanced Finite Element Analysis

15 creditsClass Size: 120

Module manager: Dr Zeike Taylor
Email: Z.Taylor@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: 1 Sep to 31 Jan (adv yr), Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2020/21

Pre-requisite qualifications

Background in Solid Mechanics and Finite Element Analysis, including concepts of strain tensor and stress tensor, matrix algebra, conservation equations and principle of minimum potential energy, experience in using a Finite Element software for structural analysis

This module is not approved as an Elective

Module summary

This module provides the advanced theoretical and practical knowledge to allow a student to competently perform complex Finite Element Methods (FEM) in structural mechanics using commercial software packages used in industry.Emphasis is given on understanding underlying hypothesis and limitations of practical solution methods.

Objectives

This module aims at developing understanding of principles underlying Finite Element Methods (FEM) for structural analysis with sources of non-linearity as well as key practical solution methods in Abaqus.
By the end of the module, students should:
- have an understanding of the limitations of linear FEM for structural analysis
- be able to describe and compare non-linear measures of strain and stress, and identify their energy conjugates
- understand the principle of virtual work used to derive FEM theory in large deformations
- be able to describe the algorithms used to solve computational plasticity and other material non-linearity
- be able to identify and choose a contact algorithm best suited for a range of contact problems
- be familiar with advanced uses of FE packages, including using scripting capabilities to automate tasks
- be able to choose specific element technology required for solving problems with large deformation, incompressibility or locking
- appreciate the importance of verification and validation in practical cases
- understand concepts of advanced applications of FEM e.g. structural optimisation, fatigue, fracture propagation (concept and limitations of X-FEM), impact, very large deformations (concepts of ALE or other mesh management methods)

Learning outcomes
On completion of this module, the student will be able to:
1. have an understanding of the limitations of linear FEA for structural analysis
2. be able to describe and compare non-linear measures of strain and stress, and identify their energy conjugates
3. understand the principle of virtual work used to derive FEA theory in large deformations
4. be able to describe the algorithms used to solve computational plasticity and other material non-linearity
5. be able to identify and choose a contact algorithm best suited for a range of contact problems
6. be familiar with advanced uses of FE packages, including using scripting capabilities to automate tasks
7. be able to choose specific element technology required for solving problems with large deformation, incompressibility or locking
8. appreciate the importance of verification and validation in practical cases
9. understand concepts of advanced application of FEA e.g. for structure optimisation, cyclic failure, fracture propagation (concept and limitations of X-FEM), impact, very large deformations (concepts of ALE or other mesh management methods)

Upon successful completion of this module the following UK-SPEC learning outcome descriptors are satisfied:

A comprehensive understanding of the relevant scientific principles of the specialisation (SM7M)
A critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights most of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of the specialisation (SM8M)
Ability both to apply appropriate engineering analysis methods for solving complex problems in engineering and to assess their limitations (EA6M)
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies (EA5M)
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations, and some appreciation of likely new developments (P9m)
Ability to apply engineering techniques, taking account of a range of commercial and industrial constraints (P10m)
Apply their skills in problem solving, communication, information retrieval, working with others, and the effective use of general IT facilities (G1)

Syllabus

- Non-linear kinematics and limitations of linear assumptions
- Weak form of equilibrium equations in structural analysis and principle of virtual work
- Non-linear constitutive modelling (plasticity, damage, and hyperelasticity)
- Element technology for non-linear effects (reduced integration, mixed methods, hourglass control, )
- Computational contact mechanics
- Application of verification and validation aligned with ISO/ASME standards
- Advanced applications of FE (e.g. structural optimisation, impact, fatigue, X-FEM, ALE, ); not all covered yearly

Typical examples will cover the field of aerospace or automotive engineering, tribology, and medical engineering

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Lecture	7	1.00	7.00
Practical	3	1.00	3.00
Practical	6	2.00	12.00
Seminar	11	1.00	11.00
Private study hours			117.00
Total Contact hours			33.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			150.00

Private study

Private study includes preparation for collaborative classes (10 hours), completing set tasks for practicals (10 hours), one coursework items (47 hours), preparation for the exam (Private study includes preparation for collaborative classes (about 10 hours), completing set tasks for practicals (about 10 hours), one coursework items (about 45 hours), preparation for the exam (about 50 hours)50 hours)

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

An online discussion board will be monitored during specified times each week.
Minerva/TopHat quiz after each topic.

Methods of assessment

Coursework

Assessment type	Notes	% of formal assessment
Project	Coursework 1 - Individual Project	40.00
Computer Exercise	Set tasks	10.00
Assignment	Formative assessment	0.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)		50.00

Coursework marks carried forward and 50% resit exam OR 100% resit exam

Exams

Exam type	Exam duration	% of formal assessment
Online Time-Limited assessment	48 hr	50.00
Total percentage (Assessment Exams)		50.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 11/09/2020 16:47:01

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