Study Programmes 2015-2016
MECA0036-2  
Finite Element Method
Duration :
30h Th, 30h Pr, 40h Proj.
Number of credits :
Bachelor in engineering5
Bachelor in engineering5
Master in aerospace engineering (120 ECTS)5
Master in biomedical engineering (120 ECTS)5
Master in mechanical engineering (120 ECTS)5
Master in physical engineering (120 ECTS)5
Master in physical engineering (120 ECTS)5
Lecturer :
Jean-Philippe Ponthot
Language(s) of instruction :
English language
Organisation and examination :
Teaching in the second semester
Units courses prerequisite and corequisite :
Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program
Course contents :
The goal of this course is to learn develop both theoretical concepts as well as practical use of the method. Starting from the mechanical behavior of simple structures like pin jointed structures; fundamental concepts of the structural analysis are introduced. Subsequently, it is shown how the general elastic equations established in continuum mechanics can be discretized and how it is possible to obtain an approximate solution for these equations.
Learning outcomes of the course :
Being able to

  • Understand the fundamental theory of the finite elements
  • Develop skills to model the behavior of elastic structures
  • Use a commercial finite element software for structural analysis
Prerequisite knowledge and skills :
Mechanics of materials.
Planned learning activities and teaching methods :
Exercises + computer project
Mode of delivery (face-to-face ; distance-learning) :
Face to face + exercices + computer project.
Recommended or required readings :
English version of the slides available via eCampus.
Assessment methods and criteria :
Theory : written exam (50%) Exercises : written exam (20%) Computer project (30%)
Work placement(s) :
Organizational remarks :
Contacts :
JP Ponthot JP.Ponthot@ulg.ac.be
G. Wautelet gwautelet@ulg.ac.be
Items online :
Slides
Slides are available through eCampus.