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Session: 2208

Application of Finite Element Method (FEM) Instruction to Graduate Courses in Biological and Agricultural Engineering

Chang S. Kim, Terry H. Walker, Caye M. Drapcho

Dept. of Biological and Agricultural Engineering Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge 70803

Abstract

The application of Finite Element Methods (FEM) to a graduate level course in Biological Engineering, Advanced Transport Phenomena in Biological Engineering, is presented. First, the Galerkin Weak Statement (GWS) was introduced to the class to show the fundamental theory of FEM by solving a 1D steady state heat transfer problem. This technique provides a more accurate solution with the estimation of error. The concept of error reduction through mesh refinement was also introduced. Each student was required to conduct an independent semester project incorporating mathematical modeling and simulation of a biological engineering problem. One of these projects, fixed bed ion exchange modeling, is discussed in this paper. The outputs from these class projects illustrate that the students gained experience in using FEM to solve dynamic biological engineering problems.

Introduction

Computer aided modeling of new products has allowed industry to quickly optimize design while spending less time and money on physical prototypes. Bioprocess and food process engineers often deal with complex heterogeneous system characterized by non-Newtonian behavior. Solutions to partial differential equations that describe these complex systems are difficult to obtain. Advantages of using Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) prototyping in food and bioprocess development (Datta 1998; Baker et al. 1999) and application to mechanics of materials (Hillsman 1994) have been previously addressed They include: 1) quick and inexpensive testing of alternative scenarios that can result in reduced costs and increased profits, 2) clear understanding of the interactions between the physical processes and their sensitivity to various operational parameters, and 3) front-end engineering before prototyping, making the prototypes closer to optimum and reducing their number. Development of computer models to describe these complex bioprocessing systems is needed.

This paper addresses the experience in introducing Finite Element Methods (FEM) to a graduate level course in Biological Engineering in LSU, BE 7352, Advanced Transport Phenomena in Biological Engineering, during the fall semester of 2001. The course included

Proceedings of the 2002 American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition Copyright © 2002, American Society for Engineering Education

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Walker, T., & Kim, C., & Drapcho, C. (2002, June), Application Of The Finite Element Method (Fem) Instruction To Graduate Courses In Biological Engineering Paper presented at 2002 Annual Conference, Montreal, Canada. 10.18260/1-2--10498