Computer Aided Engineering module (ME40001)

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Credits

15

Module code

ME40001

This module provides an introduction to the use of the computer as a tool for  solving  general  engineering  problems,  particularly  in  the  areas  of aerodynamic  simulation,  structural  analysis  and  the  design  of  dynamic systems. Students will learn and apply the basic computational/numerical methods that are necessary to solve real engineering problems. The software packages used (ANSYS, SolidWorks and COSMOS Express) are all industry standards, so the student will be well prepared for computer aided engineering in modern engineering industries. The module is divided into three parts namely finite element methods, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and 3-D solid model mechanism design and analysis.

Topics include:

  1. Finite element methods: matrix methods applied to frames, displacement distribution and shape functions, 2-d elements, equation solving – optimisation, creating an FE model – care in selecting elements & application of boundary conditions, use of symmetry, mesh creation, model & result verification, experience of commercial package – ANSYS.
  2. Computational fluid dynamics: equations of motion, equation types, solution methods, potential flow, grid optimisation, experience of commercial package – ANSYS, associated course work (computer exercises).
  3. 3-D Solid Model Mechanism Design and Analysis: creation of simple mechanisms, animation of simple mechanisms, creation of frames of reference, allocation of material properties to models, analysis of simple mechanisms, verification of motion results.

Courses

This module is available on following courses: