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

S2-01-CLAYTON-FLEXIBLE

Requisites

Prerequisite

Prohibition

Contacts

Chief Examiner(s)

Dr Katherine Grigoriou

Unit Coordinator(s)

Dr Katherine Grigoriou

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you should be able to:

Assess mesh requirements sufficient to obtain accurate results from finite element analysis.

Construct finite element models for truss structures, plan stress, plane strain, axisymmetric and general 3D structural problems.

Execute finite element analyses on aerospace structural problems using industry-standard software packages.

Determine the strength and stiffness of composite laminate structures.

Design composite laminates to meet strength, stiffness and cost requirements for aerospace applications.

Teaching approach

Problem-based learning

Online learning

Assessment summary

Continuous assessment: 100%

Assessment

1 - In-semester test 1

2 - In-semester test 2

3 - Weekly prac assessment

4 - Individual report

Scheduled and non-scheduled teaching activities

Laboratories

Workshops

Workload requirements

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.

Availability in areas of study

E3001 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Specialisation: Aerospace engineering