Course Title: Aerospace Finite Element Methods
Part A: Course Overview
Course Title: Aerospace Finite Element Methods
Credit Points: 12.00
Terms
Course Code |
Campus |
Career |
School |
Learning Mode |
Teaching Period(s) |
AERO2357 |
Bundoora Campus |
Undergraduate |
115H Aerospace, Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 1 2006, Sem 1 2007, Sem 1 2009, Sem 1 2010, Sem 1 2011, Sem 1 2012, Sem 1 2013, Sem 2 2014, Sem 2 2015, Sem 2 2016 |
AERO2357 |
Bundoora Campus |
Undergraduate |
172H School of Engineering |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 2 2017, Sem 1 2019, Sem 2 2020, Sem 2 2021, Sem 2 2022, Sem 2 2023 |
Course Coordinator: Prof. Raj Das
Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 9925 6123
Course Coordinator Email: raj.das@rmit.edu.au
Course Coordinator Location: 251.03.060
Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities
MIET2115 Mechanics and Materials 2, or equivalent
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to computational simulation via finite element analysis for engineers. In this course you will study the theory and application of finite element method for structural analysis, including static and dynamic analysis. Covered element types include truss, beam, plane stress, plane strain, plate, shell and solid elements. Linear static analysis is covered in detail. An introduction to nonlinear and vibration (frequency) analysis is provided. The knowledge and skills developed in this course are essential for all engineers involved with the design and analysis of aerospace vehicles. Learning is achieved through pre-recorded lectures, problem-solving and computer-based classes. Elementary engineering analysis as well as more extensive applications will be conducted using the programming software package. Solutions to a variety of engineering problems will be obtained using industry-standard finite element software.
Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development
This course contributes to the following Program Learning Outcomes of the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours):
1. Knowledge and Skill Base
1.2 Conceptual understanding of the mathematics, numerical analysis, statistics, and computer and information sciences which underpin the engineering discipline
2. Engineering Application Ability
2.1 Application of established engineering methods to complex engineering problem solving
2.2 Fluent application of engineering techniques, tools and resources
3. Professional and Personal Attributes
3.2 Effective oral and written communication in professional and lay domains
3.3 Creative, innovative and pro-active demeanour
3.4 Professional use and management of information
3.5 Orderly management of self, and professional conduct
3.6 Effective team membership and team leadership
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Understand the basic concepts and underlying principles of the finite element method in the context of structural analysis.
- Classify truss, beam, plate, shell and solid elements in terms of the element characteristics, use and limitations.
- Formulate the stiffness matrix for a range of element types, structures, loading and boundary conditions using the unit displacement, virtual work, and assembly methods.
- Perform linear static and vibration (frequency) analysis of structures using a commercial finite element program (ABAQUS), including error-checking and analysis of the model results.
- Develop a finite element model of different engineering structures using appropriate elements types, meshing strategies, boundary conditions, material properties, and analysis type.
- Communicate and interpret analysis models and results in a clear manner to derive meaningful inputs for the design of aerospace components and structures, as appropriate to professional practice.
Overview of Learning Activities
Key employability skills are developed during this course through the fostering of communication, critical thinking and problem solving. These are cultivated through quizzes, individual and group assignments, and problem-solving sessions where real engineering examples in the context of finite element methods are discussed and solved.
You will be actively engaged in a range of learning activities such as lectorials, tutorials, practicals, laboratories, seminars, project work, class discussion, individual and group activities. Delivery may be face to face, online or a mix of both.
You are encouraged to be proactive and self-directed in your learning, asking questions of your lecturer and/or peers and seeking out information as required, especially from the numerous sources available through the RMIT library, and through links and material specific to this course that is available through myRMIT Studies Course.
Overview of Learning Resources
Practical sessions will use the ABAQUS finite element software package.
RMIT will provide you with resources and tools for learning in this course through myRMIT Studies Course.
There are services available to support your learning through the University Library. The Library provides guides on academic referencing and subject specialist help as well as a range of study support services. For further information, please visit the Library page on the RMIT University website and the myRMIT student portal.
Overview of Assessment
X This course has no hurdle requirements.
☐ All hurdle requirements for this course are indicated clearly in the assessment regime that follows, against the relevant assessment task(s) and all have been approved by the College Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor (Learning & Teaching).
Assessment tasks
Early Assessment Tasks are provided via weekly online quizzes based on course material, in-class summative assessments, and a weekly student self-reflection survey aligned to the learning outcomes.
Assessment 1: Individual Assessment 1 (Five Quizzes)
Weighting 20%
This assessment task supports CLOs 1, 2, 3, 4, & 5
Assessment 2: Individual Assignment (Assignment 1)
Weighting 20%
This assessment task supports CLOs 1, 2, 4, 5, & 6
Assessment 3: Group Assignment (Assignment 2)
Weighting 25%
This assessment supports CLOs 1, 3, 4, 5, & 6
Assessment 4: Individual Assessment (Online)
Weighting 35%
This assessment supports all CLOs
This is an online assessment of less than 2 hours duration that may be taken at any time within a minimum 24 hour period.