The main objective of the course is lightweight design. Students will gain competencies on design methods and modelling tools (mainly using the Finite Element Method) for structures and components to be designed to achieve minimum mass while satisfying performance requirements (usually stiffness and strength), with special focus on design with composite materials.

A detailed lists of topics is reported below:

Lightweight design (16 h lesson, 12 h exercise).

Introduction, types of structures, material selection, joining techniques

Optimization: introduction, criteria and algorithms; examples and exercises. Optimization of simple mechanical structures.

Design and Analysis of lightweight structures (18 h lesson, 16 exercise)

Structures made of composite materials: laminae and laminates, modelling of laminates using FEM, design and analysis of structures made of composites, short fibre reinforced polymers, process simulation and structural analysis

Sandwich panels: design, optimization and modelling

Joint design: mechanical fasteners, welds, adhesive bonding. Dimensioning and analysis.

Teaching information

Slides of the lectures and of the exercises are available through the Beep channel

Previous knowledge of basic principles of the finite element method is not required, although it is suggested to have a background on the fundamentals of the method.

Expected learning achievements

Students should be able to demonstrate that the know how to apply basic lightweight design principles to simple structures and analyse their performances using analytical and numerical tools.

The exam consist of an oral examination. During the examination, three exercises chosen by the candidate among those completed during the course will be discussed. Istead of presenting three exercises, students can hand in homework assignements (two), which will be evaluated during the course.

ebook available through www.biblio.polimi.it

Available as ebook through biblio.polimi.it