EGB485 Finite Element Analysis

Unit Outline: Semester 1 2024, Gardens Point, Internal

Overview

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a computer based method for analysing structures under static or dynamics loadings. It has applications in all areas of engineering and is used by practising engineers and researchers to analyse and design all types of structures including buildings, bridges, dams, multi-purpose towers, cooling towers, etc. FEA enables multiple and repeated analyses with ease and hence facilitates the optimum design of the structure. It is available through a number of well- known packages such as Strand 7, ANSYS, ABAQUS, LSDYNA, etc. It is now possible to treat complex problems such as dynamic seismic analysis, impact and blast analyses and structural health monitoring and damage detection, all of which were impossible prior to the advent of FEA. Students who complete this unit will be well prepared to face the challenges of modern design offices.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

1. Understand the modern computer based technique for Structural analysis and design at a developed level.
2. Model the behaviour of a structural engineering system when subject to loading using a finite element approach at a developed level.
3. Perform the dynamic analyses of structural engineering systems at a developed level.
4. Demonstrate critical and analytical thinking and effective problem solving skills in structural engineering at a developed level.

Content

Learning Approaches

Lectures: 4 hrs/wk - except weeks 3, 5 and 7 in which there will be computer lab sessions
Computer Labs: 3 hrs in weeks 3, 5, and 7

Teaching in this unit will be through lectures, class discussions, computer lab sessions and assignments (on theory and computer modelling). It is imperative that students attend lectures and the computer lab sessions. In addition to teaching the material, there will be class discussions on the why and how of the finite element technique. You will be encouraged to ask questions to enhance your learning and to clarify doubts. Most (not all) of the lecture material will be made available through power point slides on Canvas. There will be derivations and illustration in class, which have proven to have a significant impact on learning.

The computer modelling sessions will provide an opportunity to apply the technique to model and analyse structures. They form an important part of the teaching and learning in this unit. These computer lab sessions will provide you with valuable training towards work in real life situations and equip you for life-long learning in this modern technique which is continuously growing and becoming a powerful tool with many applications in engineering.

Feedback on Learning and Assessment

Feedback will be provided throughout the semester by discussions in class and personal discussions as required.

Assessment Submission and Extensions
Assessment items submitted after the due date without an approved extension will not be marked and will receive a grade of 1 or 0%. If special circumstances prevent you from meeting the assessment due date, you can apply for an extension http://www.student.qut.edu.au/studying/assessment/extension. If you don't have an approved extension you should submit the work you have done by the due date and it will be marked against the assessment criteria. QUT's assessment submission requirements reflect the expectations of professional practice where you will need to meet deadlines.

Assessment

Overview

The assessment of this unit will be through two major problem solving tasks on theory and computer modelling and a final examination at the end of the semester. The final exam is meant to test your knowledge and skills gained across the full syllabus.

Unit Grading Scheme

7- point scale

Assessment Tasks

Assessment: Problem Solving Task

You are required to use their understanding on the basics of the finite element method to model and solve problems.

This is an assignment for the purposes of an extension.

Assessment: Project (applied)

This project will be on computer modelling techniques, applied to (i) a deep beam with an opening and (ii) a plate type structure used either as a bridge deck or a floor slab and (iii) vibration and dynamics of structures.

This is an assignment for the purposes of an extension.

Assessment: Examination (written)

The examination will cover the full syllabus - what was taught in class and the computer modelling sessions and what was learnt through the assignments.

“If campus access is restricted at the time of the central examination period/due date, an alternative, which may be a timed online assessment, will be offered. Individual students whose circumstances prevent their attendance on campus will be provided with an alternative assessment approach.”

Academic Integrity

Students are expected to engage in learning and assessment at QUT with honesty, transparency and fairness. Maintaining academic integrity means upholding these principles and demonstrating valuable professional capabilities based on ethical foundations.

Failure to maintain academic integrity can take many forms. It includes cheating in examinations, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, and submitting an assessment item completed by another person (e.g. contract cheating). It can also include providing your assessment to another entity, such as to a person or website.

You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.

Further details of QUT’s approach to academic integrity are outlined in the Academic integrity policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Breaching QUT’s Academic integrity policy is regarded as student misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.

Resources

Risk Assessment Statement

Standards/Competencies

This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.

Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competency Standard for Professional Engineer

1: Knowledge and Skill Base

1. 
   Relates to: Problem Solving Task
2. 
   Relates to: Project (applied), Examination (written)
3. 
   Relates to: Problem Solving Task

2: Engineering Application Ability

1. 
   Relates to: Problem Solving Task, Project (applied), Examination (written)
2. 
   Relates to: Problem Solving Task, Project (applied), Examination (written)

3: Professional and Personal Attributes

1. 
   Relates to: Project (applied)
2. 
   Relates to: Project (applied)

Course Learning Outcomes

EN50 Master of Engineering

1. Apply advanced discipline knowledge, concepts and practices in engineering systems and processes.
   Relates to: Problem Solving Task, Examination (written)
2. Critically analyse and evaluate complex engineering problems to achieve research informed solutions.
   Relates to: Project (applied), Examination (written)
3. Apply systematic approaches to plan, design, execute and manage an engineering project.
   Relates to: Problem Solving Task, Project (applied)
4. Communicate complex information effectively and succinctly, presenting high level reports, arguments and justifications in oral, written and visual forms to professional and non-specialist audiences.
   Relates to: Problem Solving Task, Project (applied)
5. Organise and manage time, tasks and projects independently, and collaboratively demonstrating the values and principles that shape engineering decision making and professional accountability.
   Relates to: Project (applied)

EN55 Master of Professional Engineering

1. Apply advanced and specialist knowledge, concepts and practices in engineering design, analysis management and sustainability.
   Relates to: Problem Solving Task, Project (applied), Examination (written)
2. Critically analyse and evaluate complex engineering problems to achieve research informed solutions.
   Relates to: Project (applied), Examination (written)
3. Communicate complex information effectively and succinctly, presenting high level reports, arguments and justifications in oral, written and visual forms to professional and non specialist audiences.
   Relates to: Problem Solving Task, Project (applied)
4. Organise and manage time, tasks and projects independently, and collaboratively demonstrating the values and principles that shape engineering decision making and professional accountability.
   Relates to: Project (applied)

EN60 Graduate Certificate in Communication for Engineering

1. Demonstrate and apply specialised knowledge and technical skills in at least one Engineering discipline.
   Relates to: Problem Solving Task, Project (applied), Examination (written)
2. Critically investigate real world engineering issues and solve complex problems drawing on specialised creative skills, analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, theory and practice.
   Relates to: Project (applied), Examination (written)
3. Employ effective written and oral professional communication skills across social, cultural and discipline domains.
   Relates to: Problem Solving Task, Project (applied)
4. Exercise responsibility and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for own learning and effective practice including working independently, ethically and collaboratively.
   Relates to: Project (applied)