Finite Element Method Exercises for use in Undergraduate Engineering Programs

University Of The Pacific, Stockton CA

Investigators

Abstract

Engineering - Mechanical (56) This CCLI Phase 1, Exploratory Project is developing finite element (FE) tutorial exercises of engineering problems for undergraduate courses using commercial software. It is providing undergraduate engineering students with basic knowledge in FE theory and an ability to apply commercial finite element software to typical engineering problems. The project is developing eleven tutorials in six undergraduate engineering areas: structural analysis, vibration analysis, electromagnetic analysis, biometric modeling, fluid dynamics, and steady state heat transfer analysis. This project is advancing the knowledge of teaching undergraduate engineering students the FE method for modeling and analyzing complex engineering problems. Faculty and students are assessing tutorial effectiveness at four different higher educational institutions. These tutorials are being distributed nationally to other colleges and universities via the Internet. Commercial software firms are also disseminating these tutorials through their publishing partners and other marketing outlets.