CAE Simulation Applied to Machine Design

Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)

• 9. Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Objectives

The course is addressed to those interested in computational applications for the analysis of solids and structures, focused on the design of machines and mechanisms. The objective of CAE Simulation Applied to Machine Design is to gain the knowledge for the modelling of mechanical components by the use of the numerical techniques and computer software.

A basic review of the principles of mechanics and strength of materials will be done to introduce the Finite Element Method (FEM). All knowledge will be given from a practical point of view, using a set of applied examples which will allow to gain experience in the usage of CAE software tools.

The concepts explained in the course are applicable to the analysis of mechanisms, mechanical components and structural parts of the industrial design and manufacturing. Applications in the structural field of engineering, for the analysis of structures, buildings and constructions. Applications in mechanical field for automotive, naval and aerospace engineering.

The following general objectives of this course can be considered:

1. Analysis of mechanisms and its mechanical components.
2. Ability to handle the FEM and the CAE simulation software, and be critical with the results.
3. Capacity for independent learning issues within the scope of the numerical simulation and design using the FEM.
4. Practical concepts for the analysis of solids in continuum mechanics.
5. Introduction to the Finite Element Method (FEM) theory and simulation analysis.
6. Acquisition of a specific technical vocabulary used in the FEM and numerical methods.
7. Correct understanding and interpretation of texts, figures and tables found in the technical literature related to the field of the numerical simulation and CAE.
8. Knowledge of sources of information, ability to perform literature searches relating to the scope of the subject.

Content

Theoretical block. Introduction to computational mechanics

• Topic 0. Introduction to mechanisms and discrete systems
• Topic 1. Introduction to the Finite Element Method in solid mechanics
• Topic 2. Finite elements for the analysis of rods and requirements for the numerical solution
• Topic 3. Formulation for bidimensional and axisymmetric solids
• Topic 4. Formulation of three-dimensional solids and structural elements

(Including theory and exercises)

Practical block. Introduction to CAE software

• Exercise 1. Generating geometries and meshes
• Exercise 2. Simulation of and analysis of 2D solid components
• Exercise 3. Simulation of axisymmetric models
• Exercise 4. Simulation of 3D solid examples
• Exercise 5. Simulation of advanced materials

(Including theory and resolution of problems using the computer)

Evaluation

Final Score = 15% Participation + 25% Practical Exercises + 40% Final Project + 20% Test

• Participation (15%): Individual exercices and problems to be solved during the theoretical classes.
• Practical exercises (25%): Resolution of the problems proposed during the practical sessions.
• Final project (40%): Group work for the analysis of a problem using CAE simulation tools and mechanics knowledge.
• Test (20%): Final exam for the evaluation of the theoretical and practical concepts given in the subject. (A minimum score of 3.5 over 10 is required in this exam)

Recovery test: with the same conditions of the previous test, it replaces the score obtained in the previous exam.

Methodology

The subject combines three different methodologies:

• Theoretical classes: introduction of the fundamental parts of mechanics and mathematics for the numerical techniques under the scope of this subject. These classes include exercises and other practical activities to clarify the understanding of the theory.
• Practical classes: to handle the computational software in order to perform calculations and numerical simulations. Practical activities in group are planned to foster the interpretation and discussion of the results obtained.
• Group project learning: Resolution of a group work of a problem including numerical modelling with the MEF.

*Requirements: Students need to bring a laptop for personal use in class. This computer must have Wi-Fi internet connection.

Bibliography

Key references

• Belytschko T., Liu W.K., Moran B., Elkhodary K. (2013). Nonlinear Finite Elements for Continua and Structures (2 ed.). John Wiley & Sons.
• Hughes, T.J.R. (2012). The finite element method: linear static and dynamic finite element analysis. Courier Corporation.
• O. C. Zienkiewicz, R. L. Taylor (1993). El Método de Los Elementos Finitos: Formulación Básica y Problemas Lineales (4 ed.). McGraw-Hill/Interamericana de España, S.A.
• O. C. Zienkiewicz, R. L. Taylor (1994). El Método de Los Elementos Finitos: Mecánica de Sólidos y Fluidos. Dinámica y No Linealidad (4 ed.). McGraw-Hill/Interamericana de España, S.A.
• Oñate E. (2016). Cálculo de Estructuras por el Método de los Elementos Finitos: Análisis Estático Lineal. CIMNE.

Further reading

Teachers will provide complementary bibliography and compulsory reading throughout the course via the Virtual Campus.