Undergraduate - UnitMEC4426 - Computer-aided design

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

Finite element analysis is widely used in mechanical, automotive, rail, mining and aerospace engineering. Commercial codes are used to identify elements in a given problem, their limitations and ways to improve the accuracy and reliability of analysis. Lectures present relevant theory and cover formulation of both the common default elements and the preferred element types. Other topics include stress recovery, formation of stiffness matrices, aspect ratio limits and the role of reduced integration. Tutorials provide hands-on knowledge of finite element analysis on a simple structure. Students develop skills in NASTRAN and FEMAP.

Assessment

Class assignment: 10%
Project: 20%
Mid semester examination 20%
Examination (3 hours): 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Chris Davies

Contact hours

22 lecture hours and 22 practice class hours

Prerequisites

Must have passed 96 credit points including MEC3455 or MAE3407 or TRC2201.