PENG9520 Finite Element Modelling and Simulation of Structures Course description

The course teaches advanced topics in finite element modelling and simulation of structures such as reinforced concrete, steel and timber structures. The course will also expose students to some of the recent trends and research areas in FEM.

All physical structures exhibit nonlinear behaviour to some extent, and the assumptions of linearity are often simplistic and inadequate for real-life structures. In such cases, linear analysis is only an approximation that makes the analysis of structures more tractable. The analysis of a structure undergoing some form of nonlinear behaviour will be much more accurate if a nonlinear finite element analysis is carried out. Nonlinearities can be caused by changes in geometry or by nonlinear material behaviour. This is an advanced course which follows up on linear FEM and is based on the extension of formulation of the FE equilibrium equations to the nonlinear domain, covering both types of nonlinearities.

The course will be offered once a year, provided 3 or more students sign up for the course. If less than 3 students sign up for a course, the course will be cancelled for that year.

Individual oral examination.

The exam cannot be appealed.

No formal requirements over and above the admission requirements. The course is based on knowledge and skills within solid mechanics, statics, design of reinforced concrete and steel structures as well knowledge in finite element method (FEM) in structural analysis and design.

Students who complete the course are expected to have the following learning outcomes, defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge:

On successful completion of the course, the student:

• can interpret the philosophy behind principles, design and modelling considerations in using finite element methods (FEM) in analysis and design of structures.
• can describe the general steps used in FEM to model and solve complex nonlinear problems in structural analysis and design.
• has detailed knowledge of solution methods for nonlinear static problems, and some knowledge on solution methods for nonlinear dynamic problems.
• has detailed knowledge of nonlinear geometry and nonlinear material models (elastoplastic and others) and the applications of these models in structural analysis.
• can explore the complex issues in convergence of solutions using nonlinear FEM.

Skills:

On successful completion of the course, the student can:

• demonstrate the ability to use FEM to produce a reliable prediction of displacements and stresses in nonlinear structural problems of relevance to engineering practice.
• create and design complex engineering structures using finite element methods.
• develop expertise in the usage of commercial finite element software for both linear and nonlinear analysis of complex structures.

General competence:

On successful completion of the course, the student can:

• use advanced commercial FEM software.
• understand the importance of verification and validation in research and demonstrate the ability to make critical assessments
• communicate effectively through written reports.

Closed book examination. No handwritten notes are permitted. A basic electronic calculator may be used.

Seminars, exercises, project assignment (scholarly work), scientific report and oral presentation.

The following required coursework must be approved before the student can take the exam:

Compulsory assignments. Obligatory attendance at practical training.

The course offers in-depth study of solutions within the fields of building services engineering and integrated energy design of buildings, focusing on solutions that improve the sustainability and climate-adaptiveness of the built environment

The course will be offered once a year, provided 3 or more students sign up for the course. If less than 3 students sign up for a course, the course will be cancelled for that year.

Students who complete the course are expected to have the following learning outcomes, defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge:

On successful completion of the course, the student:

• has a good understanding of the latest developments in the field.
• has a deep understanding of the fundamental scientific theories, standards and methods that are applied in the field.
• can evaluate the appropriateness and application of various scientific methods and approaches to research and development in the field.
• can contribute to the development of new knowledge, theories, methods, standards, interpretations and documentation in the field.

Skills:

On successful completion of the course, the student can:

• deal with complex technical questions and challenge established knowledge and practices within the field.
• formulate questions, and plan and carry out research development work at an international level in the field.

General competence:

On successful completion of the course, the student can:

• manage complex interdisciplinary tasks and projects
• pursue their research ethically and with professional integrity.
• participate in debates in international fora.
• communicate research and development though recognised national and international channels

Where appropriate, individual students will be introduced to specific parts of the course by attendance at selected lectures in master courses in the autumn:

• Seminars/lectures where students present specific parts of the subject matter.
• In addition, appropriate exercises (calculation or written) will be given, connected to the student's PhD project subject area

The following required coursework must be approved before the student can take the exam:

• All planned seminars must be completed.
• The given exercises must be passed