Recommended prerequisite for participation in the module

The module builds on knowledge gained in the course two modules: Structural Mechanics and Dynamics and Material Modelling in Civil Engineering.

Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

The background for the course is firstly that the computational capabilities for modelling advanced structural behavior has reached a very advanced level incorporating effects as non-linear material behavior, geometric imperfections (buckling), time-dependency and dynamics. Secondly, the standards have started to implement advanced Finite Element modelling for design of new structures and assessment of existing structures, and setting up procedures for ensuring the required level of safety. The course will enable the student to design more optimized structures.

The course will both give the necessary background for use of non-linear capabilities in modern FE-software, and enable the student both to analyze a specific problem and interpret the results especially with respect to satisfying the required safety level. 

The examples used in the course will primarily cover concrete and steel structures, and focus will be on real life structures.

Learning objectives

Knowledge

Students who complete the module:

• Should have knowledge about advanced structural analysis and its applications in civil engineering, primarily for concrete and steel structures
• Should have knowledge about non-linear behavior and modelling.
• Should have knowledge on numerical methods for advanced structural analysis and design.
• Should have knowledge about validation and verification of numerical methods.
• Should have knowledge on verification of required safety using advanced numerical methods.

Skills

Students who complete the module

• Should be able to understand the computational challenges in non-linear analysis of structural systems, primarily for concrete and steel structures
• Should be able to understand the basics of material models e.g. in plasticity and viscoelasticity.
• Should be able to understand the basics of geometrical non-linearities e.g. imperfection and their influence on the post-buckling behavior
• Should be able to understand the basics of local ruptures influence on the structural behaviour e.g. in investigation of robustness

Competences

Students who complete the module:

• Should be able to perform a Finite Element calculation with a commercial FE programme, including non-linear effects from material, geometric and dynamic behaviour.
• Should be able to interpret the results in a technical application context
• Should be able to assess that the safety level is consistent with the safety requirements from standards such as the Eurocodes
• Should be able to verify the approach and the results

Type of instruction

Lectures, etc. supplemented with project work, workshops.

Extent and expected workload

The 5 ECTS project module is expected to have a workload of 150 hours.

Exam

Exams

Name of exam	Advanced Structural Analysis and Design of Civil Engineering Structures
Type of exam	Oral exam
ECTS	5
Assessment	7-point grading scale
Type of grading	Internal examination
Criteria of assessment	The criteria of assessment are stated in the Examination Policies and Procedures