Structural Analysis and Design

The course gives the students the necessary fundamental understanding of the principles used in the design of large complex structures. An important goal is to give knowledge and experience of how to use the finite element method (FEM) correctly in design calculations, with emphasis on non-linearities in structural engineering. In particular, the students will gain a deeper understanding of the non-linear behaviour of structural materials, and achieve both theoretical and practical insight. The course covers theories of elastic and elasto-plastic materials, introduces solution methods in non-linear finite element analysis, and contains the following topics: Classification of nonlinearities (geometrical, material and boundary conditions). Introduction of continuum mechanics/Theory of elasticity: Stresses and equilibrium, strains and compatibility, material law. Strain- and stress measures. Plasticity theory (yield criteria, flow law, hardening, effects of strain rate and temperature). Mathematical models for elastic and elastoplastic materials. Solution methods in nonlinear FEA. Constraints and contact. Geometric nonlinear FEA.

Language of instruction: English

MABY4100 Finite Element Method in Structural Analysis, or a course with an equivalent learning outcome.

None

After completing the course, the student is expected to have achieved the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge:

The student:

• has advanced knowledge about the simulation and analysis of concrete and metal structures.
• has knowledge about basic theory of elasticity and plasticity.
• has knowledge about material models used in FEA.
• has in-depth knowledge of the non-linear behaviour of structural materials.
• understands how to quantify uncertainties in load and material descriptions.

Skills:

The student is capable of:

• modelling and simulating components and structures with non-linear behaviour, and evaluating the results.
• selecting appropriate analysis and material models, and carrying out structural analyses for determining internal forces and moments, stresses, strains, and displacements with a satisfactory degree of accuracy.
• choosing appropriate material models and material properties to solve the problem in question.
• determining the parameters of mathematical models for materials from laboratory experiments or from the literature.
• describing the difference between linear and non-linear structural analysis.
• explaining the theoretical basis for linear and non-linear geometry and material behaviour.

General competence:

The student is capable of:

• using FEM software in practical structural analyses.
• assessing approaches to and limitations in linear and non-linear analyses.
• using scholarly reports and articles to gain an overview of the latest developments in research in the field of non-linear analysis of structures.

The teaching consists of lectures, 3-4 exercises (written assignments or computer-based assignments) and project work. The exercises are linked to the topics taught. The project assignment is to be carried out in groups of 1-3 students and concerns FE-analysis of a structure. The report forms part of the assessment for the grade awarded for the course. Detailed guidelines for the project assignment will be published in Canvas.

Four individual assignments, three of which must be approved before the student can take the exam. Students who fail to meet the coursework requirements can be given up to one re-submission opportunity before the exam.

Part-exam with the following components:

Part 1) Individual written exam under supervision (3 hours), weighted 60 %.

Part 2) Project report prepared in groups of 1-3 students, approx. 7000-9000 words, weighted 40 %.

Assessment parts (1) and (2) can be appealed.

All assessment parts must receive a pass grade (E or better) for the student to pass the course.

In the event of a resit or rescheduled exam, an oral examination may be used instead. If oral exams are used for resits or rescheduled exams, the results cannot be appealed.

Assessment parts:

1) Written Exam: No printed or written aids. An approved calculator that cannot be used to communicate with others. If the calculator’s internal memory can store data, the memory must be deleted before the exam. Random checks may be carried out. Excel will be available during the exam.

2) Project Report: All aids are permitted as long as the rules for source referencing are followed.

Grade scale A-F.

1) and 2): one internal examiner.

External examiners are used regularly

Aase Reyes