MAE4426 · Finite element analysis and composite structures

Overview

Finite element analysis (FEA) in computer-aided design; finite element formulation; first-order and second-order elements; stiffness matrix; integration points and stress recovery; convergence and mesh refinement; FEA of plane stress and plane strain problems; FEA of axisymmetric problems; FEA of nonlinear materials; FEA of contact problems; FEA of large deformation problems; FEA of dynamic problems; FEA of fracture mechanics. Specific modulus and specific strength; 3D stress and 3D strain tensors; anisotropic elasticity; composite lamina and composite laminate; hygrothermal strain and hygrothermal stress analysis of composite structures; failure theories for a composite lamina; micromechanical analysis of a composite lamina; classical lamination theory for composite laminate, failure analysis of composite laminates, design of composite laminates, finite element analysis of composite materials and structures.

Offerings

The Handbook publishes no offerings for this unit.

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Continuous assessment: 100%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Assess mesh requirements sufficient to obtain accurate results from finite element analysis.
2. Construct finite element models for truss structures, plan stress, plane strain, axisymmetric and general 3D structural problems.
3. Execute finite element analyses on aerospace structural problems using industry-standard software packages.
4. Determine the strength and stiffness of composite laminate structures.
5. Design composite laminates to meet strength, stiffness and cost requirements for aerospace applications.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.