The module provides theoretical and practical skills for structural analysis and design using the Finite Element Method (FEM). Combining lectures and hands-on labs, it explores the fundamental principles of FEM, structural modeling, and critical interpretation of numerical results. Topics include: theoretical foundations of FEM in structural engineering, modeling of simple and complex structures, selection and validation of the numerical model as a physical representation, static and multiphysics structural analysis, and an introduction to professional FEM software. Laboratory activities allow students to apply acquired knowledge, develop numerical models, run simulations, and analyze results from a design perspective. The course aims to foster abstraction skills and a critical mindset toward structural analysis and the reliability of the adopted models and solutions.
To provide the students with general knowledge and engineering skills about the Finite Element Method, in order to transfer the ability to properly of create and use the finite element models of mechanical components and assemblies developed to perform structural verification analyses.
Students will be required to demonstrate that they have learned FEM structural modeling techniques and are able to apply them to solve typical structural problems in computer-aided mechanical design.
The module consists of lectures and a theoretical-practical laboratory component.
Lectures and exercises are held in the classroom.
The laboratory sessions will be conducted by the module instructors, assisted by laboratory tutors. At the beginning of each lab session, a brief theoretical introduction will be provided to explain the basic principles underlying the FEM methodologies that will be used. In the practical part, students—divided into groups of two or three and supported by instructors and tutors—will be required to apply the concepts and methods presented. At the end of the module, students will be asked to submit a report on a project of their choice. The organization and schedule of the laboratory activities will be communicated directly by the instructors at the beginning of the module.
Students who have valid certification of physical or learning disabilities on file with the University and who wish to discuss possible accommodations or other circumstances regarding lectures, coursework and exams, should speak with Professor Federico Scarpa (federico.scarpa@unige.it), the Polytechnic School's disability liaison.
Matrix methods for discrete beam structures (frames and pin joined beam structures). The finite element method fundamentals : shape functions, convergence criteria, error estimation. The most common 2D and 3D finite elements : theory bases and application examples.
Mesh generation by direct methods and by using mesh generation tools. Discretization criteria. Dynamics, heat transfer and structural optimization problems solved by finite element techniques.
Worked examples developed using the general purpose FEM code ANSYS
Lecture notes.
Textbooks:
Ricevimento: By appointment via Microsoft Teams or at DIME, Mechanics Section – Via all’Opera Pia 15/A – second floor. To schedule an appointment, send an email.
https://corsi.unige.it/corsi/9269/studenti-orario
STRUCTURAL FEM DESIGN
Evaluation of a project through a project presentation and an oral examination.
The development and presentation of the project are intended to assess the student's ability to use the structural analysis tools covered in the module for the study and design of a complex and articulated mechanical system.
The oral exam aims to evaluate the student's knowledge of structural analysis methods and their critical understanding of structural analysis issues, as well as their ability to assess the quality and validity of the numerical results obtained.
Ask the professor for other information not included in the teaching schedule.
