Course content

The course includes the following subjects: advanced meshing, identification of FE based theory and tools for problem solving, linear and non-linear Finite Element (FE) analyses, static and dynamic FE formulations in time and frequency domain, guidance in static, dynamic, contact, buckling analysis, evaluation of structural integrity of components with geometrical discontinuities, and FE based solutions of advanced industrial applications.

Learning outcome

Knowledge: The students know about problem identification as well as best methods and tools to optimize mechanical systems. Based on selected applications, programs and knowledge from "Finite Element Applications in Mechanical Engineering", the students can utilize FE analyses in mechanical engineering. The students know about the possibilities and limitations with the applied FE solver theory.

Skills: The students can use the Finite Element Method in problem solving related to the integrity and performance of mechanical systems. The students have got comprehensive skills in commercial FE software package(s).

General competence: The students have general competence in dimensioning based on numerical methods and tools

Learning methods and activities

The basic course intension is to build fundamental understanding of Finite Element Method and focus on Finite Element applications and problem solving in Mechanical Engineering. The applications will be selected from simple examples of mechanical components (such as the ones from previous exams in TMM4112 Machine Elements) as well as more complex industrial mechanical systems. FE methods related to the applications will be taught to enable the students to understand and evaluate the simulation results. The students shall see and learn "pros and cons" with analytical solutions and FEM simulations. The lectures and exercises are given in English.

Further on evaluation

Portfolio assessment is the basis for the grade in the course. The portfolio includes a series of biweekly exercises and one final project at the end of the course. The results for the parts are given in %-scores, while the entire portfolio is assigned a letter grade. The biweekly exercises are in form of numerical modelling tasks based on the given lectures and should be performed by the students individually in form of written report of the modelling process and presentation of results and discussions. The delivered reports will then be graded after the defined deadline (2 weeks duration-unless it is defined differently). The submitted assignments after the defined deadline will not be graded and approved. A summation of the exercise grades will cover 30% of the final grade, while the remaining 70% is dedicated to the final project. Admission to deliver the final project requires 2/3 of biweekly exercises to be delivered and approved. The students can ask their questions regarding the given exercises during the exercise classes. Similar to the exercises, the final project will be performed and delivered individually, however considering the larger size of the final project, the defined duration for executing the final project and delivering the report is almost twice longer than the biweekly exercises. For a re-take of an examination, all assessments during the course must be re-taken.

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

The course is made for students of Mechanical Engineering, Product Development and Engineering and it is based on different aspects of mechanics of materials (stress analysis) and the basic knowledge of the Finite Element Method. Previous knowledge in these subjects is highly recommended. Experience with commercial CAE software packages is an advantage.

Required previous knowledge

The knowledge of mechanics of materials (stress analysis) and basics of Finite Element Method (e.g. discretization concept, boundary conditions, different element types, convergence, etc.) is mandatory. The students should have passed courses including the basic aspects of mechanics of materials (e.g. Machine Elements, Mechanics, Mechanics of Materials, etc.). Passing the basic FEM courses or having experience with commercial CAE software packages is mandatory. The students must also have access to a windows compatible laptop powerful enough to run CAE software packages.

Course materials

Textbook: Introduction to Finite Elements in Engineering (by T.R. Chandrupatla, A.D. Belegundu) A first course in finite elements (by Jacob Fish and Ted Belytschko) Electronic version available at google books (and other sites) Powerpoints, tutorial videos and lecture notes.

Credit reductions