Course Program
The Course is structured into Progressively More Complex Learning Units, with a Strongly Practical Approach involving the use of PCs and Software dedicated to Finite Element Analysis (FEM).
Students will tackle and solve Real Problems related to the Design and Assessment of Mechanical Components, developing Skills useful for Modeling, Simulation, and Interpretation of Results.
The Software used during the Course is MSC MARC; however, the Topics maintain a General Approach, applicable to various FEM Tools.
The planned Learning Units are as follows:
- Introduction to FEM: Basic Principles, Theoretical Formulation, and Application Areas of the Finite Element Method.
- FEM Modeling: Selection of the most appropriate Elements (1D, 2D, 3D) and Advanced Modeling Techniques for an Accurate Representation of the Mechanical Problem.
- Linear Analysis: Determination of the Stress Field in the presence of Stress Concentrations. The Validation of the Solution is explored through the analysis of Critical Parameters, such as Element Size and Aspect Ratio, Shape Functions, Edge Effects, and Mesh Quality.
- Use of One-Dimensional Elements: Study of Truss Structures and Application of Linear Elements for Stress Analysis in Simplified Structural Systems.
- Nonlinear Analysis – Plasticity: Introduction to Plasticity Phenomena and Theory of Plasticity in Metals. Both Small and Large Deformations are covered, with Exercises on Inverse Calibration of the Flow Curve based on Tensile Test Results.
- Design According to Legal Standards: Analysis of Pressure Vessels and Design of Piping Systems according to the ASME PVB Code, with Practical Examples of Standards Application.
- Modal Analysis: Determination of a System’s Natural Frequencies and Study of Mode Shapes to evaluate Stability and Resonance Conditions.
- Impact and Shocks: Transient Dynamic Analysis to simulate Impact Scenarios. Introduction to Stress Wave Propagation Phenomena and Transient Dynamic Effects on Mechanical Components.
