module specification

In this module on Advanced Structural Analysis and the Finite Element Method (FEM), you will gain the knowledge and practical skills needed to analyse complex structures. You will cover both analytical and computational techniques in structural analysis focusing on FEM. You will dive into the core principles of FEM, from the mathematical foundations to the numerical techniques used in structural analysis and explore both linear and nonlinear analysis methods.

You will also work with industry-standard software to model and analyse different structures, dealing with various loading scenarios. A key part of the module is learning how to verify and validate your results by comparing them with analytical solutions, lab data, and benchmarks. You will also discuss the limitations of FEM and other methods so you can develop a critical understanding of their applications.

On completion of the module, you will be confident in analysing complex engineering problems using a systematic approach and hierarchical techniques. In addition, you will learn how to make decisions using engineering judgment based on available, sometimes incomplete, data, producing technical reports that communicate your findings, ready for professional settings.

Topics covered in this module include:

• Linear vs nonlinear analysis: sources of nonlinearities in Civil Engineering structures and implement appropriate methods for structural analysis - material and geometrical nonlinearities (LO1, LO2, LO3)
• Plastic analysis (LO1, LO2)
• Stiffness method (LO1, LO2)
• Flexibility method (LO1, LO2)
• Buckling (LO1, LO2)
• Finite element method (LO3, LO4, LO5, LO6)
• One-dimensional element formulation for beams and frames (LO3, LO4, LO5, LO6)
• Two-dimensional plane stress/strain formulations (LO3, LO4, LO5, LO6)
• Higher-order formulations for plane stress/strain analysis (LO3, LO4, LO5, LO6)
• Plate bending elements (LO3, LO4, LO5, LO6)
• Limitations of finite-element approximations: accuracy, error estimation, and convergence (LO3, LO4, LO5, LO6)
• Introduction to dynamic FE analysis and extreme loading – single degree of freedom and multiple degree-of-freedom systems. Understanding the concept of natural frequency, natural mode shape and resonance in multi-degree-of-freedom systems (LO3, LO4, LO5, LO6)
• Application of finite element analysis software to structural engineering problems (LO3, LO4, LO5, LO6)
• Cutting-edge advancements and innovations in FE software development including application of AI/ML (LO3, LO4, LO5, LO6)

This module will be delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, workshops, IT/experimental lab work, and guided online activities. Some of these sessions will be recorded and available for you to access at your convenience, allowing you to explore topics beyond the classroom. This blended learning approach encourages interaction with your peers, fostering meaningful discussions.

The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) will also serve as a platform for ongoing communication between students and tutors, offering discussion boards and other tools to enhance collaboration.

Lectures will focus on advanced structural analysis and FEM. Workshops, tutorials, and practical activities will provide you with opportunities to enhance your understanding and apply your knowledge to the analysis of complex problems, with guidance from both your peers and tutors.

You will receive regular formative feedback to help you develop a deeper understanding of core concepts, improve your technical report writing, and enhance your critical thinking abilities. Although this feedback will not contribute to your final grade, it will enable you to monitor your progress and make continuous improvements.

Your learning will be further supported by both independent and guided reading and research, enhancing your understanding of structural analysis and computational mechanics principles. By engaging with a variety of academic resources, including textbooks, research papers, and industry reports, you will deepen your knowledge and stay updated on the latest innovations, advancements, and emerging technologies in the field. This will not only allow you to connect theory to practice but also help you develop the skills needed to innovate and tackle complex computational mechanics challenges in real-world scenarios.

On completion of the module, the learner, operating independently and applying their knowledge and skills, should be able to:

1) apply a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering principles to the solution of advanced structural analysis problems.

2) apply appropriate analytical techniques to model complex structural analysis problems, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed.

3) formulate and analyse complex linear and non-linear problems using the finite element method (FEM) discussing the limitations and the associated sources of approximation.

4) utilise industry-relevant software for the simulation of the response of simple and complex structures, while understanding the cutting-edge advancements and innovations in FE software development.

5) Apply an integrated systematic approach to the solution of complex problems, understanding hierarchical subdivision processes used to solve them.

6) Carry out a systematic and rigorous verification of experimental lab work, FE calculations, FE results, and other analytical methods to critically evaluate their validity and synthesis of data.

The core reading texts and sources can be accessed via the following link:

CO7014 - Advanced Structural Analysis and Finite Element Method | London Metropolitan University