MT 3601 - Finite Element Analysis

3 lecture hours 2 lab hours 4 credits

Course Description
This course is designed as an introduction to the finite element method and a continuation of the study of solid mechanics begun in MT 205. Lecture topics include steps in the finite element analysis process; element formulations of spring, truss and beam elements using direct equilibrium and energy methods; assembly of equations and application of loads and boundary conditions; interpretation of FEA results; static failure criteria; beam deflections; and pressure vessel theory. Lab exercises focus on various computer simulations. These exercises will include 1-, 2-, and 3-D truss analysis, thick-wall pressure vessels, 2-D plane stress plane strain analysis, 3-D solid analysis, and 3-D design optimization using FEA. Students will use a commercial finite element program to simulate the experiments performed in the mechanical testing laboratory. (prereq: MT 205, MA 225)

Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

Use computer software to solve a system of simultaneous equations
Assemble system equations for a simple finite element model, apply loads and boundary conditions, solve for unknown quantities and interpret results. Element types that the student will be able to use are spring, truss, and beam elements
Be capable of analyzing linear stress analyses with finite element analysis software
Model simple structures with SolidWorks solid modeling software, mesh the surface, and export the model
Use FEA as a design tool in a 3-D analysis
Be capable of writing reports detailing results of physical tests and/or stress analyses

Prerequisites by Topic

Strength of materials
Differential and integral calculus

Course Topics

Introduction to finite element analysis. (1 class)
Review of matrix math; computer solution of simultaneous equations. (2 classes)
Introduction to FEA program. (3 classes)
Spring element formulation. (2 classes)
Assembly and solution of equations. (2 classes)
Failure criteria. (3 classes)
Effect of boundary conditions. (1 class)
Truss elements. (4 classes)
Introduction to SolidWorks. (2 classes)
SolidWorks interface. (1 class)
Beam elements. (2 classes)
3-D analysis. (4 classes)
Introduction to advanced topics in FEA. (1 class)

Laboratory Topics

1-D Truss analysis (manual computation using direct method)
1-D Truss analysis (computer lab)
2-D Truss analysis (computer lab)
3-D Truss analysis (computer lab)
1-D, 2-D, 3-D Beam analysis (computer lab)
2-D Tensile test specimen analysis (computer lab)
Asymmetric hydraulic cylinder analysis (computer lab)
Multi-body analysis using contact elements (computer lab)
3-D bracket analysis (computer lab)
3-D bracket design optimization (computer lab)

Coordinator
Vincent Prantil

Announcement

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Milwaukee School of Engineering

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MT 3601 - Finite Element Analysis