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ME
455
Computer-Aided Design
Use of computers in modeling, simulation and design, introduction to finite element method, optimization techniques, applications in thermal, fluid and mechanical system design.
Prerequisites:
0630415,0630421
Corequisites:
0630451
0630455
(3-0-3)

Textbook:

  1. Saeed Moaveni, Finite Element Analysis: Theory and Application with Ansys, 4th Ed, Prentice Hall, 2014
  2. Esam M. Alawadhi, Finite Element Simulation using ANSYS, Second Edition, CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group, 2016.

References:

  1. J.S. Arora, Introduction to Optimum Design, 4th Ed, Elsevier Academic Press, 2016
  2. Logan, D.L., A First Course in Finite Element Method, Brooks/Cole, 5th Ed, 2011.
  3. D.L. Taylor, Computer-Aided Design, Addison Wesley, 1992

Coordination:

Major Design TAG.

Prerequisites by Topics:

  1. Stress and Strain
  2. Failure Criteria
  3. Numerical Techniques
  4. Fluid Flow
  5. Heat Transfer
  6. Mechanical Vibrations
  7. Programming

Learning Objectives[^1]:

  1. To develop students' competence in the use of computational tools for problem solving and design (1,2)
  2. To introduce a basic theoretical framework for numerical methods used in CAD, such as FEM, Optimization, and Simulation (1)
  3. To provide opportunities for the students to practice communication and team-building skills, to motivate the students to follow new trends in CAD and to train them to learn a new software on their own (3,4,5,7)

Topics:

  1. Basic Elements of a CAD System (3 hours)
  2. Single and Multi-Variable Optimization (9 hours)
  3. Concepts and the use of the Finite Element Method (12 hours)
  4. Applications in design and simulation of fluid, thermal,

and Structural systems (9 hours)

  1. Exams (3 hours)

Evaluation:

  1. Homework
  2. Quizzes
  3. In-Class Exams
  4. Take home Exams
  5. Computer Assignments
  6. Projects
  7. Oral presentation
  8. Team assessment
  9. Self assessment

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of this course students will be able to

Objective 1

  1. use a commercial software package to solve optimization problems
  2. use a commercial software package for FEM modeling and solution for various engineering problems
  3. use commercial software package(s) for design and simulation of engineering systems or components

Objective 2

  1. perform hand calculations for simple FEM Models, also explain the basic concepts of FEM such as element, shape functions, and error control
  2. use analytical, graphical and numerical techniques to solve for simple optimization problems
  3. choose appropriate computational tools (e.g., FEM, Optimization, Simulation) and parameters (e.g., element type, mesh size, step size, tolerance etc) to solve engineering problems and design

Objective 3

  1. work in teams effectively to complete the term project(s)
  2. communicate effectively in written form when asked to prepare technical reports or essays
  3. acquire information not covered in the lectures, and be able to learn a new software package or advanced features on their own with minimal guidance
  4. recognize ethical and professional responsibilities involved in an engineering project.

Course Classification

Student Outcomes Level Relevant Activities
H, M, L
1. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics. H Modeling, Numerical Solution of Eng. Problems, Homework, Project
2. An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors. M Project, Homework, essays
3. An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences. M Report writing, Project report and presentation, essays, lectures
4. An ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts. M Case Studies, essays, Project
5. An ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives. M Team Projects
6. An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
7. An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies. M Lectures, self-learning, assignments, New trends in CAD, Projects, Homework, using new softwares for solving projects.

[^1]: Numbers in parentheses refer to the student outcomes