Abstract:

The study of subjects in Mechanics of Materials and Structural Mechanics is featured in Mechanical Engineering Integrated Masters in different years and levels of complexity. These range from fundamental theory to advanced structural modelling using numerical simulation tools. The combined use of fundamental theory and experimental demonstration should be encouraged and is already a common practice. For the study of more advanced topics leading with numerical simulation and design tools experimentation should also be used to better achieve learning objectives. For that purpose, a set of tools was developed seeking to combine numerical and experimental practice. These tools include experimental jigs based on industry case studies; numerical simulation tutorials and design exercises for use with topology optimization numerical studies. The scope of areas covered includes: material testing and elastic properties; stiffness analysis; and numerical simulation using finite element method as well as advanced design recurring to topology optimization.

Keywords:

Mechanics of Materials, Engineering Education, Numerical simulation.