AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Modern engineering is characterized by the use of different classes of materials and the design of new advanced materials, leveraging recent fabrication techniques (e.g., additive manufacturing). 3D printing, or additive manufacturing (AM), is emerging as a unique tool to fabricate novel materials with additional properties (i.e., multifunctional) triggered by 3D structures, by the use of multi-material technologies, and by smart materials. Yet, a deep understanding of mechanics and materials design is required when dealing with this new class of materials. To optimize the design of mechanical components and avoid unexpected failures, a careful selection and a clear understanding of the mechanical behavior of materials is required. This course aims to provide the necessary elements for the design with different classes of materials and for the design of new materials, also starting from models existing in nature. Some classes of materials will be studied considering their peculiarities in terms of mechanical behavior, evaluation of life under complex stress conditions (e.g. multiaxial fatigue), or defects. Composite materials of natural origin (e.g., bone, wood), biomimetic materials (inspired by natural materials), metamaterials, and multifunctional materials (e.g., self-sensing materials, shape-morphing) will be studied, considering various potential applications, from the biomedical field (e.g., design of scaffolds and bio-inspired prostheses) to automotive/aerospace (composites with enhanced mechanical properties and smart composites), and soft robotics (self-sensing and self-actuating materials for robotic manipulators, grippers, etc.). This course will provide a comprehensive approach to advanced engineering materials design, in particular multifunctional materials, where multiple functions can be achieved via inherent 3D complex geometries that enable enhanced and anisotropic deformations, the multi-material approach, soft materials, and embedded sensors (e.g., through conductive materials). A special focus will be given to a sustainable design approach, leveraging numerical modeling, proper materials selection and optimal design. It is a project-based course with theoretical lectures and numerical laboratories (use of FE-software and materials design&selection software). This course contributes to the following SDGs (Sustainable Design Goals) according to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by the UN (https://sdgs.un.org/goals):

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

https://corsi.unige.it/en/corsi/9269

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy