The Finite Element Method (FEM) is nowadays a usual calculation tool for problems coming from fields as different as elasticity, structures, heat transfer, electrostatic, electrical current flow, fluids dynamics, electromagnetism,… A general knowledge of this tool is a very valued asset for solving complex problems that appear in the professional life of engineers. The solution of these problems is not easy at all and requires simulations to answer common questions. The subject, as a consequence, takes advantage of the knowledge acquired during the studies of the Mechanical Engineering Degree and combines this knowledge with the computational technique represented by FEM

- Application of the Finite Element Method to different cases of Mechanical Design

- Converting real situations or problems into mathematical models

-Solving of mathematical models through numerical techniques

- Study of the limitations, pros and cons of the FEM

- Discuss and validation of the solutions obtained through FEM

- Integration of the knowledge acquired during the degree studies with the possibilities and means offered by the FEM

1.- Introduction to the FEM. Basic ideas.

2.- Types of elements, loads and boundary conditions. Truss nad beam elements, plane elements, brick and wedge elements. Mechanical and thermal loads (static and dynamic loads). Boundary conditions.

3.- Meshing. Considerations about meshing rules and meshing densities.

4.- One dimensional elasticity. Hand made solutions of one dimensional problems, both mechanical and thermal.

5.- Isoparametric formulation of the FEM

6.- Non linear FEM: material non linearity

7.- Non linear FEM: geometrical non linearity

8.- Non linear FEM: Plasticity

9.- FEM and composite materials.

Theoretical contents will be explained in the magistral classes. At the same time, illustrative examples will be developed in these classes.

Computer labs will serve to learn the functioning of a FEM software. One of the objectives of these labs will be to compare the results obtained with the software and available solutions.

Classes will be developed with overheads and students will have at the beginning of the term these overheads available.

Groups of two students will develop and solve a particular problem through the FEM that the teacher will propose. At the end of the term, this work will be presented by the students in front of the rest of the class.

• Final Assessment System
• Tools and qualification percentages:
  • Written test to be taken (%): 70
  • Team projects (problem solving, project design)) (%): 30

- To pass the exam, a minimum of 5 points out of 10 is necessary.

- Before the final examination, it is needed to present a report about the work done in the two students groups previously mentioned. It will be not possible to pass the subject if this work has not been presented previously. This work will represent the 30% of the final mark of the subject, while the written examination will represent 70%.

- If the student does not present himself/herself the day of the examination, a “no presentado” mark will be assigned.

- Finally, if a student, by solid reasons listed in the General rules of the University, decides that he or she wants to make a single final examination which represents the 100% of the mark, the student should present himself or herself to the final examination. Apart from this, he or she must do a computer lab exam. To do so, the student should ask this special procedure in the secretary of the School.

- The presentation of the work done in the group is a must to be able to pass this subject. At the same time, a minimum of 5 points out of 10 are needed to pass the exam.

- Finally, if a student, by solid reasons listed in the General rules of the University, decides that he or she wants to make a single final examination which represents the 100% of the mark, the student should present himself or herself to the final examination. Apart from this, he or she must do a computer lab exam. To do so, the student should ask this special procedure in the secretary of the School.

- Classs notes compiled by the subject teacher.

Basic bibliography

The Finite Element Method. O.C. Zienkiewicz.

The Finite Element Method in Mechanical Design . Charles E. Knight. PWS Publishing Company

In-depth bibliography

- El Método de los Elementos Finitos, O.C. Zienkiewicz. Ed Reverté.
- The Finite Element Method in Mechanical Design . Charles E. Knight. PWS Publishing Company

Web addresses

https://lisafea.com/