This module will enable students to gain understanding, apply knowledge, analyse and evaluate problems and create solutions through a variety of activities, including formal lectures and practical work in laboratories, where teaching of software, demonstrations, practical exercises will be undertaken. Regular formative practical assessments will be set on FEA operation to focus the students learning.

o Moaveni, S., (2014) "Finite Element analysis: theory and applications with ANSYS".Fourth Edition. Pearson.
o The Open University, (2016) "Introduction to finite element analysis". First Edition.
o Schijve, J., (2009) "Fatigue of structures and materials". Second Edition. Springer.
o Lee, Y.L., Pan, J., Hathaway, R. and Barkey, M., (2011) "Fatigue testing and analysis: theory and practice". Elsevier.
o Rothwell, A., (2017) "Optimization methods in structural design (solid mechanics and its applications)". Springer.
o Spillers, W.R. and MacBain, K.M., (2009) "Structural optimization". Springer.
o Bendsoe, M.P., (2004) "Topology optimization: theory, methods and applications". Springer.
o The module tutor will direct the student to the latest academic papers for each area of study
o Technical manuals for equipment used

Finite element analysis software of an industrial standard capable of performing static structural analysis, fatigue analysis, design optimisation (e.g. ANSYS)

In this module you will be introduced to the general procedures that are necessary to carry out a Finite Element Analysis (FEA). You will also be introduced to optimisation methods in engineering. You will be familiarised with an FEA software and you will have the opportunity to investigate both numerically and experimentally fatigue problems in engineering structures. More specifically, you will cover the following topics:

- Mathematical representation of FEA: Basic principles of FEA, 1D spring element plane
truss elements, plane simple beam elements, local and global stiffness matrices.

- Fatigue Analysis: Fatigue processes and classification, stress-life and strain-life techniques, S-N curves, Miners rule, design factors.

- Deflection of beams using Energy Methods (Castigliano Theorem)

- Modal analysis: Modal and frequency matrices, experimental modal analysis, modal analysis using FEA software

1. Produce viable finite element analysis solutions to a range of classic, potential failure modes prevalent in mechanical engineering and to compare these with classical solutions. (AHEP 3: SM7M, EA6M)

2. Reflect on the outcomes of the laboratory tests and determine the accuracy and repeatability of the results. (AHEP 3: SM7M, G1)

3. Plan and undertake a formal investigation in the form of a professional design analysis (AHEP 3: SM7M, G1)

4. Critically evaluate and understand the limitations of the analyses undertaken. (AHEP 3:EA6M)

You will be required to complete two elements of summative assessment as follows:

A 2hour-examination 50% assessing LO1 and LO4. Meeting AHEP 3 Outcomes SM7M, EA6M.

A portfolio of FEA reports weighted at 50% assessing LO1, LO2 and LO3. Meeting AHEP 3 Outcomes SM7M, EA6M, G1.

Students will be given formative guidance and feedback. Draft work will be reviewed during tutorials or electronically