T804 - Finite element analysis: basic principles
and
applications
What is T804 about?
Engineering is at the heart of modern life and engineers now use
computers and software in the design and manufacture of most of the
products, processes and systems that make up our lifestyles. T804
is a 30-credit postgraduate module that introduces a computational
modelling and analysis technique known as
Finite Element Analysis (FEA). Topics covered are basic theory,
modelling, meshing, and analysing component models for stresses,
deflections, temperatures and vibrations under operating conditions and
loads. The module includes many examples of good practice for
the safe and
effective application of the method.
The
module will require approximately 300 hours of study time which
includes time for working through the learning material, using real FEA
software code, reflecting on
the learning and completing assignments. Students are assigned a tutor
to support them through the module, and a module forum is provided so
that problems and thoughts can be discussed online with other T804
students.
Self-evaluation test
There
are no formal prior
study requirements for T804. The
recommended level of knowledge to study T804 is second and
third year
undergraduate mechanical engineering including mechanics, dynamics,
heat transfer and materials, and second year
undergraduate mathematics (especially
calculus and matrix algebra). If you have not studied with The Open
University before, we
advise that you have a sound knowledge of degree level engineering,
physics or mathematics to avoid overloading yourself. If you are
considering studying this module, please take the
self-evaluation test which may
help identify
potential areas for revision prior to embarking on T804.