Computational Modelling and Analysis of Structures

Recommended Prerequisites

Not applicable.

Teaching Methods

Exposition of concepts and their application in a computer environment in all classes. This application always involves practical examples solved in the classroom simultaneously by the teacher and the students.
In the last 20 minutes of each class, a practical problem is solved individually by the students to ensure that they have learned the relevant concepts, methods and techniques.

Learning Outcomes

Basic knowledge of some common finite elements.
Know how to prepare and systematize the information required to produce the model.
Modelling skeletal structures, slabs, walls, shells and solid structures.
Modelling actions and combinations.
Linear quasi-static analysis, dynamical analysis, seismic analysis and nonlinear analysis.
Know how to get the calculated results: stresses, internal forces, deformations and displacements.
Know how to analyse and validate the results.
Know how to save the model and results and produce a report.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1- Basis for the modelling of structures
- system of reference and auxiliary lines
- identification and management of information
- graphical, spreadsheet and other options for data input and results output
2-Modelling of structures
- plane frames
- trusses and strut and tie models
- spatial frames with or without slabs and walls
- continuous structures (solids)
- convergence analysis
3- Modelling of actions
- characterization of actions
- forces, mass, imposed deformations and displacements, other actions
- combination of actions
4- Quasi-static structural analysis:
- linear analysis
- assessment of execution errors
- inspection and analysis of results
5- Dynamical analysis
- vibration modes and frequencies
- seismic analysis of buildings

- dynamical analysis of bridges

6- Shell and solid elements
- analysis of deposits
- analysis of shallow foundations
7- Non-linear material and geometric analysis
- elasto-plastic behaviour
- second order analysis
- unilateral supports
- cables.

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Resolution Problems: 30.0%
Project: 30.0%
Exam: 40.0%

Bibliography

Bibliografia base
- Marsh, K. (2014) Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Profissional, Autodesk

- Providência, P., Andrade, A. e Costa, R. (2013), Elementos de apoio à disciplina de Projeto Assistido por
Computador, Departamento de Engenharia Civil da Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia da Universidade de
Coimbra.
- FIB (2008) Practitioner’s guide to finite element modelling of reinforced concrete structures, FIB Bulletin 45",
fib
- Blaauwendraad, J. (2010), Plates and FEM: Surprises and PitfallsPlates and FEM: Surprises and Pitfalls,
Springer
Bibliografia complementar
- Clough, R.W. and Penzien, J. (1993), Dynamic of Structures. 2ª ed. MacGraw-Hill International
- Cook, R.D. (2001), Concepts and applications of finite element analysis, Wiley.