Finite Element Analysis

Computational Simulation

Skill owner: Dr Jamie Gawith

Purpose: Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a common computational modelling technique where complex structures or systems are divided into smaller, more manageable elements, forming a mesh. This method allows engineers to solve complicated problems by applying known physical principles to these simpler elements and then reassembling them to model the entire structure. This technique allows for accurate predictions of physics like heat transfer, stress /strain, and electromagnetic fields. Proficiency in FEA helps engineers to optimise designs, reduce prototyping costs, and improve product reliability. As simulations are increasingly used to design systems and products, FEA has become an essential competency for engineers.

Requirements: To claim this skill, you will use a commercial FEA tool like ANSYS to model a more complex system in 2D or 3D. You must include:

  1. A brief explanation about the system you are modelling, including the physics /equations you are solving and how you have set up the model (50-100 words).
  2. Screenshots of the model setup with geometry, mesh, boundary conditions, excitations and analysis.
  3. Screenshots of relevant outputs /results of the model.
  4. A short explanation commenting on the outputs /results of the modelling and why these are relevant and useful for design or analysis purposes (50-100 words).

All screenshots /code must show your username.

Skills Framework Levels

The purpose of this Skills Framework is to evidence your acquisition of important engineering skills. Thus, it combines a combination of technical and transferable skills in eleven broad categories. It is designed so that the final portfolio can be used as a showcase of your skills attainment.

To reflect the differing levels of skills attainment, each of the skills in this framework can be demonstrated at three different levels:
Knowledge: Achieved when you follow instructions to demonstrate the skill.
Application: Achieved when you demonstrate the skill at request without instructions, and you have reflected on the skill's success. A critical reflection demonstrates your understanding of the skill by highlighting what went well and what could be improved (50-100 words).
Synthesis: Achieved when you have demonstrated the skill without guidance or instruction for a specific project, justifying your choice of using the skill and you have reflected on the skill's success (see above). Your justification should include an explanation of why you have used the skill to contribute towards a defined objective for a whole system / project. The choice of the skill must be supported by evidence showing that it is the best solution compared to other options. This allows you to demonstrate your understanding of when this skill is appropriate and how it fits within a wider context (50-100 words). There is also an expectation that you are demonstrating this skill effectively to achieve synthesis.

Each skill will have specific requirements for the skill to be satisfactorily endorsed. In addition, there are overarching requirements for all pages of your ePortfolio. If any page does not satisfy these requirements, the page will not be considered in any further detail.

  1. The page comprises an introduction that summarises all the digital artefacts on the page.
  2. Every digital artefact (e.g. photos, figures, videos and other non-text items) must clearly show the username of everyone contributing to the work in such a way as to authenticate the intellectual ownership of the artefact.
  3. All the skills being claimed are arranged below a 'Skills Mapping' block at the bottom of the page, as per the template.
    4. n
  4. Within the annotation block you have clearly specified what skill level you are claiming and why.</li>
  5. The page is of sufficient quality to present to people external to the University.
  6. The page has fewer than 5 errors such as spelling mistakes or other typographical errors.
  7. Any evidence in audio format must be recorded in a quiet, stable environment, with clear speech at a moderate pace, to ensure clarity and comprehensibility.
    8. </ol> # Labs Demonstrating This Skill

Citations