Question:
Objectives
1. To investigate the axial forces, stresses and strains in the structural framework by experiments;
2. To develop a finite element model using MATLAB software to calculate the nodal displacements, axial force, strain and stress in each member and their validation with experimental results;
3. To compare some aspect of the performance of structures fabricated from welded steel, extruded aluminium and Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastics (CFRP).
Compile your experimental results in tabulated form, refer lab sheet. You should submit the signed lab sheet along with the final report. Failure to submit the signed lab sheet will result in losing the marks correspond to the experimental section of this coursework. Refer manufacture guide, available in the lab, to learn more about the structural assembly, strain and force measuring system.
3 Finite element modelling You should model the structural framework by using the finite element method. For this, you will use MATLAB software to write code to predict the axial forces, stresses and strains in the structural framework as shown This will allow you to compare the experimental results.
The prime characteristics of the MATLAB program should be:
1. The MATLAB code should show clearly the inputs and outputs.
2. It should include sufficient comments to explain each steps.
3. Clarity on each step involved from elemental stiffness matrix.
4. Assembly of elemental stiffness matrix.
5. Solve for nodal displacements, elemental stress & strains and forces.
Having validated your finite element program, you should be able to use the same to compare some aspect of the performance of structures fabricated from the material listed in the Table 1. Consider the following questions to rank the materials according to the performance metric.
• What is the minimum diameter that will withstand the 10kN load if youfabricate the structural members made from the materials listed in the Table 1?
• Considering the factor of safety 3, which material you will choose for minimum weight design? You will need to estimate the mass of the structural member for chosen cross-section details.
• What material you will choose for the minimum cost design?
1. Presentation of experimental results for stainless-steel structural members. This should include the measured strains and calculated forces in
each structural member for the applied load of 500N. (20%)
2. A comparative analysis, in terms of axial strains and forces between the experiments and prediction by using finite element MATLAB code. (20%)
3. Discussion about the material rankings, weighing up the advantages/disadvantages of each materials in terms of minimum weight and minimum
cost when considering factor of safety. (20%)
4. Conclusion about the appropriate cross-section and right material chosen for fabricating the structural framework for each design criteria. (20%)
5. The course work report is presented in a professional manner with clear content, introduction and all relevant sections as per the guidelines stated in this document. (20%)
