MODULE DESCRIPTOR
MECHGM05 – Advanced Computer Applications in Engineering
Code:
Alt. Codes(s)
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Level:
UCL Credits/ECTS:
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Taught by:
MECHGM05
MECHGR05, MECHM003
Advanced Computer Applications in Engineering
M
15/6
September
April
Prof Yiannis Ventikos (50%) Module Coordinator
Dr Mehran Moazen
(50%)
Prerequisites
Familiarity with undergraduate courses in mechanics of fluids, mechanics of materials,
statics, dynamics and basic calculus.
All students are assumed to be familiar with the principles of programming.
Course Aims
Understanding the theoretical background to the workings behind commercial FEA
and CFD packages.
Appreciating the structure of programs for potential amendment and development
To use commercial software packages for solving problems and assessing their limitations
Ability to take a detached view in checking output
Method of Instruction
Lecture presentations.
Assessment
Assessment is entirely by coursework for MSc/Dipl students in Mechanical Engineering, Marine
Engineering, Power Systems Engineering and MEng students. There are two pieces of coursework
each for Finite Element Analysis (FEA1 and FEA2) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD1 and CFD2).
Resources
Cook R.D., Malkus D.S., Plesha M.E., Witt R.J., Concepts and applications of finite element
analysis. Fourth edition, John Wiley and Sons, 2002 (ISBN 0-471-35605-0)
Cook R.D., Finite element modeling for stress analysis. John Wiley and Sons, 1995.
Versteeg, H. K. and Malalasekera, W., “An Introduction to Computational Fluid Dynamics”,
Prentice Hall, 1995 (2nd Ed., 2007).
Ferziger, J. H. and Perić, M., “Computational Methods for Fluid Dynamics”, 3rd Ed.,
Springer-Verlag, 2001.
Additional Information
Tutorials on the use of a commercial CFD code (hands-on computer work).
Content
Finite Element Analysis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Introduction and Review of linear elasticity
Energy formulations and Basic approach to displacement FEs
Plane problems
Isoparametric elements, Solution techniques
Modelling, errors and accuracy
Axisymmetric problems
Plates
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Computational Fluid Dynamics:
1. Introduction and Overview of CFD
2. Mathematical Formulation of Fluid Dynamics Continuity
Equation (Conservation of mass) Navier-Stokes
Equation (Conservation of momentum)
Equation of Energy (Conservation of energy)
Submodels for Two-Phase Flows and Combustion
3. Turbulence Modelling
Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS) and Large Eddy Simulation (LES)
Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS)
Eddy viscosity concept, k-epsilon models
Second moment closure, Reynolds stress models
4. D o m a i n D i s c r e t i s a t i o n G r i d
Generation Types of Grids
and their Application
5. Numerical Solution Methods
Finite Differences
Finite Volumes
Boundary Elements
Spectral Methods
6. Equation Discretisation Schemes
Upwind Differencing
Central Differencing
Power Law Differencing
Higher Order Schemes
Numerical Diffusion
7. Pressure Correction Algorithms
SIMPLE, PISO, other variations
8. Relaxation and Convergence
Overall Methodology
Relaxation Techniques
Residuals
9. Commercial CFD Packages and their Applications
Overview, Capabilities, Benefits
Limitations, Errors, Accuracy
Visualisation of CFD Results
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Learning Outcomes1 for MECHGM05, MECHGR05
General Learning Outcomes
Ability to develop, monitor & update a plan, to reflect a changing operating environment
N/A
Ability to monitor and adjust a personal program of work on an on-going basis, and to learn
independently
This module is assessed completely by 4 pieces of coursework. Students have to manage their time
to meet the deadlines. The lectures provide the basic material but significant self
learning is required by students for them to fully understand the material.
The ability to exercise initiative and personal responsibility, which may be as a team member or
leader
N/A
The ability to learn new theories, concepts and methods etc and apply these in unfamiliar
situations
Normal learning situation common to all degree programs
Specific Learning Outcomes
Underpinning science & Mathematics
A comprehensive understanding of the relevant scientific principles of the specialisation
The module provides an understand of the principles underpinning Finite Element
analysis and computational fluid dynamics
A critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights much of which is at, or informed by,
the forefront of the specialisation.
Students are lectured on current problems, challenges, insights, developments, etc., relevant to
various types of applications of CFD in industry and research: Aerodynamics, F1 racing, gas
turbines, ic engines, weather forecasting, heat transfer, fundamental turbulence modelling, etc.
An understanding of concepts relevant to the discipline, some from outside engineering, and the
ability to critically evaluate and apply them effectively.
The concepts of FEA and CFD are explained as well and the coursework exercises provide the
students with the opportunity to demonstrate correct and effective application.
Engineering Analysis
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies
N/A
Ability to apply appropriate models for solving problems in engineering and the ability to assess
the limitations of particular cases;
A module aim is for students to be able to take a detached view when checking output.
The ability to collect and analyse research data and use appropriate engineering tools to tackle
unfamiliar problems, such as those with uncertain or incomplete data or specifications, by the
appropriate innovation, use or adaptation of engineering analytical methods.
N/A
1 EAB website http://www.engab.org.uk/documentation document Accreditation Of Masters Degrees Other Than MEng last
accessed 10 Aril 2012
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Design
The ability to apply original thought to the development of practical solutions for products,
systems, components or processes
N/A
Economic, Social and Environmental Context
Knowledge and understanding of management and business practices, and their limitations,
and how these may be applied appropriately, in the context of the particular specialisation
N/A
The ability to make general evaluations of risks through some understanding of the basis of such
risks
N/A
Engineering Practice
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations, and some appreciation of likely
new developments
N/A
Advanced level knowledge and understanding of a wide range of engineering materials and
components
N/A
The ability to apply engineering techniques taking account of a range of commercial and industrial
constraints
N/A
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