Unit(s) of Assessment	Weighting Towards Module Mark( %)
FEA assignments	50
Composites assignments	50
Qualifying Condition(s)      A weighted aggregate mark of 40% is required to pass the module

This module extends from the design modules in the first year. The basic CAE skills generated in year 1 were primarily CAD and in this module these skills are extended to include FEA (finite element stress analysis). This provides a computer based stress analysis alternative to the analytical stress analysis skills developed in other parts of this programme. Composite materials are an increasingly more common in product design and the other part of this module develops quantitative skills in design with composite materials to supplement the more qualitative understanding generated in year 1 materials.

Completion of the progress requirements of Level HE1

To develop further the understanding of the design process, to show the place of finite element stress analysis in this process and to introduce the principles of design for fibre reinforced polymer (frp) composite materials.

Upon successful completion of the module, you will  be able to:

·         understand the need for an analytical approach to the design activity.

·         be able to participate in a professional manner utilising computer-based techniques as appropriate.

·         be aware of the different characteristics of composite materials compared to conventional (isotropic) materials, such as metals

·         be able to design laminates to give a required in-plane mechanical performance (stiffness, strength) for simple engineering applications.

• Applications of computer based stress analysis in design   Integration of CAD into the design process.   Line, area and solid elements.   Adaptive meshing procedures.   Mini FEA modelling project.   Principles of composite materials, applications and manufacturing routes.   Stiffness and strength properties of a unidirectional laminate.   Application of composite materials to pressure vessels.   Failure criteria.   Mechanics of composite laminates containing plies of varying orientations.   Design of (flat) laminates

36 design office sessions comprising 9 hours tutorials and structured questions with FEA software ANSYS, 9 hours tutor assisted mini project using ANSYS, and 18 hours tutorial and structured questions on frp composites. 64 hours independent student learning time. Total student learning time 100 hours.

Essential reading   None   Required reading   None   Recommended background reading Fagan MJ, Finite Element Analysis: theory and practice, Longman, 1996 Hull D and Clyne TW, An Introduction to Composite Materials, Cambridge University Press, 1996.

1 October 2010