The Finite Element Method 5 (U03488)

? Credit Points : 10 ? SCQF Level : 11 ? Acronym : EEL-5-CVFEM

The finite element method is an indispensable tool for engineers in all disciplines. This course introduces students to the fundamental theory of the finite element method as a general tool for numerically solving differential equations for a wide range of engineering problems. A range of field problems described by the Laplace, Poisson and Fourier equations is presented first and all steps of the FE formulation is described. Specific applications in heat transfer and flow in porous media are demonstrated with associated tutorials. The application of the method to elasticity problems is then developed from fundamental principles. Specific classes of problem are then discussed based on abstractions and idealisations of 3D solids, such as plane stress and strain, Euler-Bernoulli and Timoshenko beams and Kirchoff and Mindlin-Reissner plates and shells.

Entry Requirements

? Pre-requisites : Prior attendance at U03489:Computer Methods in Struct. Eng. or U02610: Computer Methods in Mech. Eng.

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Civil, (School of Engineering and Electronics, Schedule M)

Other subject areas

Mechanical, (School of Engineering and Electronics, Schedule M)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : 5th year

? Delivery Period : Not being delivered

? Contact Teaching Time : 3 hour(s) per week for 10 weeks

All of the following classes

Type	Day	Start	End	Area
Lecture	Wednesday	09:00	12:00	KB

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, the student should be able to:
- demonstrate the ability to produce FEM based numerical discretisations of mathematical descriptions (differential equations) of simple problems in continuum mechanics;
- demonstrate the ability to use FEM for solving simple steady and transient field problems using a standard software package;
- demonstrate the ability to use FEM to produce a reliable prediction of displacements and stresses in linear elastic bodies of relevance to engineering practice using a standard software package;
- demonstrate the ability to make a critical assessment of the calculation.