Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

Learning objectives

Knowledge

• Have an understanding of how careful modelling and a profound understanding of the numerical methodology can help an engineer in producing reliable and precise simulations for a wide variety of problems
• Have knowledge of element technology, such as bar, beam, solid and shell elements
• Be able to apply nonlinear finite element methods including solution of systems of nonlinear equations, geometrically nonlinear problems, contact problems and nonlinear material models
• Have an understanding of the non-linear nature of certain manufacturing processes
• Have an understanding of material modelling:
  • Plasticity and viscoelasticity
  • Non-linear properties of engineering materials such as steel and polymers
  • Methods to obtain material characteristics.

Skills

• Be able to solve engineering problems using a commercial finite element programme
• Demonstrate a basic understanding of concepts, theory and applications of finite element analysis from an engineering point of view
• As every simulation is a compromise between precisions and cost, the student must be able to judge the advantages and disadvantages of the different software options available
• Be able to model certain manufacturing processes using the finite element theory
• Be able to model a material based on test results
• Be able to conduct a systematic assessment of results.  

Competences

• Use finite element tools to model, simulate and interpret issues related to product and/or process design
• Be able to judge the opportunities and limitations of finite element simulations with regard to product and/or process design.

Type of instruction

The teaching is organized in accordance with the general form of teaching. Please see the programme cirruculum §17.

Extent and expected workload

Since it is a 5 ECTS course module the expected workload is 150 hours for the student.

Exam

Exams