MECH 4002 Computer Aided Engineering

Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 301000

Coordinator Leo Zhang Opens in new window

Description This subject describes the basics and fundamentals of computer aided engineering focusing on the advanced topics of finite element methods, which is a powerful numerical tool for analysing a wide range of engineering problems. Through applied projects students will apply the finite element method (FEM)-based computer aided engineering (CAE) and its applications in the fields of solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics and heat transfer and product design and development as well. The development of students' academic skills in research and communication are also achieved through the completion of FEM-based CAE projects.

School Eng, Design & Built Env

Discipline Mechanical Engineering

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 2 10cp

Check your fees via the Fees page.

Level Undergraduate Level 4 subject

Pre-requisite(s) ENGR 3020

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  1. Apply the basic and fundamental principles of finite element method on solving typical engineering problems with aids from computer modelling and simulation
  2. Investigate and explain boundary conditions, mesh generation, error control and other practical considerations in finite element models for conducting finite element analyses for different types of problems
  3. Implement finite element method into design process for optimal solution
  4. Apply commonly-used finite element programs to solve practical engineering problems in solid mechanics
  5. Apply commonly-used finite element programs to solve practical engineering problems in fluid mechanics and thermodynamics and heat transfer

Subject Content

Review on fundamentals of finite element method
3-D finite element methods (solid, shell and plate elements)
Boundary conditions, mesh generation, error control and other practical considerations
Finite element analysis on Solid Mechanics Problems (Linear and Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis)
Finite element analysis on Fluid Mechanics Problems
Finite element analysis on Heat Transfer Problems
FEA-based design optimisation
Computer aided engineering and product design and development

Assessment

The following table summarises the standard assessment tasks for this subject. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated, where there is a difference your Learning Guide takes precedence.

Type Length Percent Threshold Individual/Group Task Mandatory
Numerical Problem Solving 3 × approximately 1000 words each 30 N Individual Y
Practical 4 × approximately 1,000 words each 20 N Individual Y
Quiz 1 hour (per Quiz) 15 N Individual Y
Report 3 minutes (presentation); 8,000-10,000 words 35 Y Group/Individual Y

Teaching Periods

Sydney City Campus - Term 1 (2024)

Sydney City

On-site

Subject Contact Peter Lendrum Opens in new window

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Spring (2024)

Penrith (Kingswood)

On-site

Subject Contact Richard Yang Opens in new window

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Parramatta City - Macquarie St

On-site

Subject Contact Leo Zhang Opens in new window

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Sydney City Campus - Term 3 (2024)

Sydney City

On-site

Subject Contact Peter Lendrum Opens in new window

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Sydney City Campus - Term 2 (2025)

Sydney City

On-site

Subject Contact Peter Lendrum Opens in new window

View timetable Opens in new window

Spring (2025)

Penrith (Kingswood)

On-site

Subject Contact Richard Yang Opens in new window

View timetable Opens in new window

Parramatta City - Macquarie St

On-site

Subject Contact Leo Zhang Opens in new window

View timetable Opens in new window