MEC 3302 Computational Mechanics in Design

STAFFING:

REQUISITES:

SYNOPSIS:

This course will provide students with an understanding of the operation and limitations of computer aided engineering (CAE) and analysis systems, and provide opportunities to develop the basic skills required to operate such systems. Material presented will include the architecture of CAE systems, numerical methods, finite element methods, computer graphics, engineering methods of CAE, optimisation, solid feature based parametric modelling, and technical information management systems. The advantage of a CAE process is demonstrated by several engineering assignments that students must complete on a CAE facility throughout the semester. Considerable emphasis is placed on the appropriate use of the finite element method in the design process.

OBJECTIVES:

The course objectives define the student learning outcomes for a course. The assessment item(s) that may be used to assess student achievement of an objective are shown in parenthesis. On completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. explain the concepts and principles used in the formulation and application of the finite element method (focussed on stress analysis of common mechanical devices) (Assignment 1, Assignment 2, Assignment 3, Exam);
2. demonstrate an ability to formulate, implement, and document solutions to solve simple engineering problems using the finite element method (Assignment 1, Assignment 2, Assignment 3, Exam);
3. choose appropriate software packages to assist in the solution of a range of common engineering problems (Assignment 3, Exam);
4. evaluate the performance of an existing design using computer aided engineering software, in particular, to evaluate the validity of the model and solution in relation to the original problem specification (Assignment 3, Exam);
5. demonstrate an awareness of the potential areas of application of CAE tools, and to explain the advantages and disadvantages of such systems (Assignment 3, Exam).

TOPICS:

TEXT and MATERIALS required to be PURCHASED or accessed:

ALL textbooks and materials are available for purchase from USQ BOOKSHOP (unless otherwise stated). Orders may be placed via secure internet, free fax 1800642453, phone 07 46312742 (within Australia), or mail. Overseas students should fax +61 7 46311743, or phone +61 7 46312742. For costs, further details, and internet ordering, use the 'Textbook Search' facility at http://bookshop.usq.edu.au click 'Semester', then enter your 'Course Code' (no spaces).

REFERENCE MATERIALS:

STUDENT WORKLOAD REQUIREMENTS:

ASSESSMENT DETAILS:

NOTES:

1.

Student Administration will advise students of the dates of their examinations during the semester.

IMPORTANT ASSESSMENT INFORMATION

1. Attendance requirements:
   It is the students' responsibility to attend and participate appropriately in all activities (such as lectures, tutorials, laboratories and practical work) scheduled for them, and to study all material provided to them or required to be accessed by them to maximise their chance of meeting the objectives of the course and to be informed of course-related activities and administration.
2. Requirements for students to complete each assessment item satisfactorily:
   To satisfactorily complete an assessment item a student must achieve at least 50% of the marks or a grade of at least C-. Students do not have to satisfactorily complete each assessment item to be awarded a passing grade in this course. Refer to Statement 4 below for the requirements to receive a passing grade in this course.
3. Penalties for late submission of required work:
   If students submit assignments after the due date without prior approval then a penalty of 10% of the total marks gained by the student for the assignment will apply for each working day late.
4. Requirements for student to be awarded a passing grade in the course:
   To be assured of receiving a passing grade a student must achieve at least 50% of the total weighted marks available for the course.
5. Method used to combine assessment results to attain final grade:
   The final grades for students will be assigned on the basis of the weighted aggregate of the marks (or grades) obtained for each of the summative assessment items in the course.
6. Examination information:
   In an Open Examination, candidates may have access to any material during the examination except the following: electronic communication devices, bulky materials, devices requiring mains power and material likely to disturb other students.
7. Examination period when Deferred/Supplementary examinations will be held:
   Any Deferred or Supplementary examinations for this course will be held during the examination period at the end of the semester of the next offering of this course.
8. University Regulations:
   Students should read USQ Regulations 5.1 Definitions, 5.6. Assessment, and 5.10 Academic Misconduct for further information and to avoid actions which might contravene University Regulations. These regulations can be found at the URL http://www.usq.edu.au/corporateservices/calendar/part5.htm or in the current USQ Handbook.

ASSESSMENT NOTES