Computer Analysis for Engineering Design & Simulations module (GA33006)
Cover the formulation of engineering problems for numerical solution, and the use of MATLAB and computer-aided engineering simulation tools
This module introduces you to computer-based tools for engineering analysis and develops your ability to apply numerical methods alongside advanced CAD techniques.
In the first part, you will study linear equations and their application to engineering problems, direct and iterative solution methods such as Gauss-Seidel and Jacobi, and use MATLAB to perform matrix solutions.
In the second part, you will learn some fundamentals in the analysis of plane mechanisms and subsequently develop your 3D CAD skills to perform motion simulation in SolidWorks.
Teaching takes the form of structured workshops, self-directed on-ramping courses in MATLAB and SolidWorks, and project-based assessments that integrate knowledge from earlier modules in mathematics, CAD, and engineering mechanics.
What you will learn
In this module, you will:
- Formulate and solve systems of linear equations arising from engineering problems
- Construct matrix analyses using MATLAB
- Apply iterative numerical solution methods including Gauss-Seidel and Jacobi, using MATLAB
- Study the basics of General Plane Motion (GPM) and its application to dynamic analysis.
- Apply CAD simulation to a mechanical design problem, using the analysis of plane mechanisms as a backdrop
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- Select an appropriate computer analysis tool for a given engineering problem
- Construct systems of linear equations to solve specified engineering problems.
- Show an appreciation for different numerical solution methods
- Generate simulation models from a 3D solid modelling package
- Perform dynamic analyses on plane mechanisms using computer-simulated methods
Assignments / assessments
Project 1: Numerical Solution Methods (50%)
- Integrates linear equation formulation of an engineering problem and subsequent MATLAB-based numerical solution
Project 2: CAD Simulation (50%)
- Applies 2D AutoCAD and SolidWorks MOTION to engineering design problems
This module does not have a final exam.
Teaching methods / timetable
| Week | Topic |
|---|---|
| 1 | MATLAB Onboarding course |
| 2 |
Engineering Problem Formulation 1 Revision of Key Topics of Matrices, Solving Strategies using MATLAB for ebasic operations |
| 3 | Engineering Problem Formulation 2 – More examples |
| 4 | Introduction to Iterative Methods, use of MATLAB for Matrix solution, Jacobi, Gauss-Seidel and Succession-Over-Relaxation |
| 5 | Direct matrix solution methods – Gaussian Elimination, LU Decomposition Method |
| 6 |
Revision of key concepts of Dynamics rectilinear/rotational kinematics and kinetics, moments of inertia, radius of gyration |
| 7 | General Plane Motion, velocity diagrams of plane mechanisms – modelling in AutoCAD |
| 8 | Acceleration Diagrams of plane mechanisms |
| 9 |
Inertial Forces in mechanisms use of D’Alembert and Instantaneous Centre methods |
| 10 | 3D methods for mechanism simulation – SolidWorks MOTION |