In this module you will be introduced to the general procedures that are necessary to carry out a Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). You will also be familiarised with an FEA and CFD software, and you will have the opportunity to investigate numerically problems in engineering. 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.
- Discretisation, Solution and Postprocessing stages in FEA
- Fatigue Analysis: Fatigue processes and classification, stress-life and strain-life techniques, S-N curves, Miner’s rule, design factors.
- Deflection of beams using Energy Methods (Castigliano Theorem)
- Fluid Flow Simulations and associated approaches to successful CFD modelling
- Conservation equations (continuity and momentum) and iterative numerical approaches (e.g. Gauss-Jacobi, Gauss Sidel etc)
- Discretisation schemes to discretise scalar transport equations for diffusion and advection problems and numerically solve them with the help of iterative numerical approaches
- Pressure velocity coupling and pressure-correction methods (SIMPLE and PISO)
- Unsteady differential equations and solving transient CFD problems.
- Mesh strategies, Boundary conditions and Post processing of CFD results

1. A closed-book written examination covering structural/FEA part. Meeting AHEP 4 Outcomes: M1, M2, M3.

2. A portfolio of work covering CFD part. Meeting AHEP 4 Outcomes: M1, M2, M3, M4, and M17

Professional Body requirements mean that a minimum overall score of 50% is required to pass a module, with each element of assessment requiring a minimum mark of 40% unless otherwise stated.

This module will enable you to gain deep understanding, advanced knowledge, critical, analytical and evaluation skills for problems solving and create solutions through a variety of activities, including.

Taught Lectures – covers a range of elements, i.e. from basic principles to tasks required to be completed for the same week
Tutorials – to complete weekly tasks, corresponding research, ANSYS based modelling/simulations and Numerical problems etc
Independent study

You will also be supported through a VLE and use of university library.

1. Apply a viable finite element analysis to a range of classic, potential failure modes prevalent in mechanical engineering and compare this with classical solutions. (AHEP 4: M1, M2, M3)

Application & Problem Solving

2. Reflect on the need for simplifying assumptions in order to solve a mathematical problem obtained from a physical problem and critically evaluate the limitations. (AHEP 4: M1, M2, M3)

Reflection

3. Produce numerical solutions using advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics knowledge and demonstrate discretisation techniques by implanting various approaches (AHEP 4: M1, M3, M7)

Knowledge & understanding
Application & Problem Solving

4. Explain CFD results from advanced simulations using Finite Volume Methods (AHEP 4: M2, M4, M17)

Communication

ANSYS Software or equivalent

Other Online resources such as:

http://ansysforum.com/index/

https://studentcommunity.ansys.com/

https://www.cfd-online.com/Forum/

Kuroiwski, P. M., (2022) “Finite Element Analysis for Design Engineers” SAE International

Moaveni, S., (2015) "Finite Element analysis: theory and applications with ANSYS”. Fourth Edition. Pearson. (This is the most recent prominent text in this area)

Schijve, J., (2009) "Fatigue of structures and materials". Second Edition. Springer.

Tu, J., et al. (2018). Computational Fluid Dynamics: A Practical Approach. Elsevier Science.  (This is the most recent prominent text in this area)

Tucker, P. (2016). Advanced Computational Fluid and Aerodynamics (Cambridge Aerospace Series). Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. (This is the most recent prominent text in this area)

Volpe, N. (2021). Guide to Computational Fluid Dynamics: A Practical Approach to the Finite Volume Method: Fluid Dynamics Book. Independently Published.

This module provides detailed study of the process of Structural Analysis and Computational Fluid Dynamics and how such processes can be used to solve real-life problems. Design and analysis case studies and design problems will be considered, and the applications of different system implementation technologies will be discussed. Software-based modelling and simulation techniques to create complex systems will be studied. Industry standard software will be used for detailed analysis and complex modelling and simulations during this module.