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151-0518-00L 4 Credits BSC , MSC D-MAVT

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Computational Mechanics I: Intro to FEA

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Dennis Kochmann

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:54:31

Abstract

Numerical methods and techniques for solving initial boundary value problems in solid mechanics (heat conduction, static and dynamic mechanics problems of solids and structures). Finite difference methods, indirect and direct techniques, variational methods, finite element (FE) method, FE analysis in small strains for applications in structural mechanics and solid mechanics.

Objective

To understand the concepts and application of numerical techniques for the solution of initial boundary value problems in solid and structural mechanics, particularly including the finite element method for static and dynamic problems.

Content

1. Introduction, direct and indirect numerical methods. 2. Finite differences, stability analysis. 3. Variational methods. 4. Finite element method. 5. Structural elements (bars and beams). 6. 2D and 3D solid elements (isoparametric and simplicial elements), numerical quadrature. 7. Assembly, solvers, finite element technology. 8. Dynamics, vibrations. 9. Selected topics in finite element analysis.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Lecture notes will be provided. Students are strongly encouraged to take their own notes during class.

Literature

No textbook required; relevant reference material will be suggested.

General Information

Language: English
Levels: BSC , MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: session examination
Mode: written 90 minutes
Aids: Four hand-written pages of notes/formula sheets are allowed during the exam (i.e., four single-sided or two double-sided sheets of paper); no further materials are allowed.

The written final exam (taking place during the examination session) covers all contents of this course, including lectures, exercises, and programming assignments. It counts 50% towards the final grade.Additionally, there will be a compulsory continuous performance assessment in the form of a programming assignment that is broken down into five projects to be discussed and assigned during the course of the semester. Out of the five projects, at least four must be submitted two weeks after assignment. The best four submitted projects count 50% towards the final grade (12.5% each). These programming projects, which are integrated with the lectures and exercises, require the student to understand and apply the course material, and it involves programming in Matlab.

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture with exercise	Computational Mechanics I: Intro to FEA The course starts in the second week of the Semester.	Mon 10:15-12:00 (ML F 34) Wed 14:15-16:00 (ML F 39)	4 h weekly

Offered In

Mechanical Engineering Bachelor
- 6. Semester
  - Focus Specialization
    - Design, Mechanics and Materials (Focus Coordinator: Prof. Kristina Shea In order to achieve the required 20 credit points for the Focus Specialization Design, Mechanics and Material you are free to choose any of the courses offered within the focus and are encouraged to select among those recommended. If you wish to take one of the Master level courses, you must get approval from the lecturer.)
Mechanical Engineering Master
- Core Courses
  - Mechanics, Materials, Structures (The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor.)