Advanced Finite Element Analysis

Based on practical application of Abaqus software, this course builds on the introductory level course to provide a fuller appreciation of how Abaqus works as well as FEA in general. This Training consists of five modules, the course emphasizes the various aspects of structural analysis. The topics covered can also be abstracted to provide a useful guide for use of FEA for non-structural applications. Learners will use the Abaqus Learning Edition software to review and apply the key concepts of FEA.

This is an online, instructor-supported course, allowing you to work at your own pace and convenience. Each module has a short quiz to be performed after it is completed. In addition, there is a final exam to be completed after all modules are reviewed.

Modules include written materials and video demonstrations. Virtual office hour(s) will be provided for live interaction with the instructor.

By participating in the course you will learn how to successfully:

• Execute command-line input for Abaqus
• Perform basic structural dynamics, including free vibrational and harmonic response analyses
• Perform basic transient dynamic analysis for structural applications
• Perform nonlinear structural analyses
• Perform design sensitivity analysis and coupled field analysis
• Navigate the Abaqus user manuals to explore additional features and available procedures as the student may have need

Who Should Attend?

Anyone wishing to gain better insight into the application of Abaqus software to FEA requirements

As this is an “advanced” course, it is expected that the student will enter into the course with knowledge of basic FEA principles, such as:

• Basic terminology (node, element, degrees of freedom, etc.)
• Basic mathematical principles (element equations f = kd; global equations (F+R) = KD; etc.)
• Concepts of shape functions and interpolation functions
• Have a basic familiarity with Abaqus. 

This last is not critical, as the Abaqus documentation includes several good tutorials which should help the student to get up to speed, and the first modules of this course are written to provide a “brush-up” on the use of Abaqus. However, it would be beneficial to the learner if they enter the course with some familiarity with Abaqus. 

System & Software Requirements

The course will be delivered in an online format. In addition, each student will receive access to an educational version of the FEA software, Abaqus, which will be used in this course. 

Please refer to the Abaqus website to ensure that your computer meets the system requirements (as outlined below).

• Only 64-bit Windows operating systems are allowed, not 32-bit Windows.
• Minimum supported operating systems: Windows 10.
• The installation will require 10.5 GB of disk space.

To take this course you should have a personal computer (PC) with Windows 10 and Microsoft Internet Explorer 11.0.11, Web browser (Firefox, Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge), Java 11, Internet connection, and software to display PDF files (such as Adobe Reader).

Course Materials (included in purchase of course):

• Digital course notes via ASME’s Learning Platform

A Certificate of Completion will be issued to registrants who successfully complete the course and achieve a passing score of 75% or higher on the final exam.