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Session 2238

Introduction of Finite Element Methods in the Lower Division Mechanical Engineering Technology Curriculum

Thomas G. Boronkay, Janak Dave University of Cincinnati

Introduction

Many engineering technology students work in positions requiring familiarity with engineering analysis as well as design. They are asked to use commercially available software packages as a part of their job function. Some of the simple analysis is off loaded to the designer. One of main reason for this shift is integration of analysis as early in design process as possible. Another reason is availability of powerful software and hardware at reasonable costs to the companies. However, most engineering technology students are not exposed to Finite Element Methods as part of their educational process. This is especially true for our Associate Degree students.

In general, an Engineering Technology program has more hands-on orientation than an Engineering program. However, this does not extend to the use of Finite Element Analysis in most technology programs. It is true for Mechanical Engineering Technology Curriculum at University of Cincinnati. The Mechanical Engineering Technology Department offers a technical elective course in Finite Element Analysis for upper division students. At present, due to hardware limitations and student interest, about 15-20% of baccalaureate graduates take this course. Not a single student at associate degree level is exposed to computational analysis as a powerful problem solving tool.

Starting Winter quarter 1997, we are addressing this problem. All of our lower division students will be exposed to a modern tool for analysis and hands-on experience in using a commercially available Finite Element package. We are not teaching them a Finite Element Course nor it will be a software training module. We will integrate small modules of Finite Element Analysis in our existing Design Courses. We are hoping that, in the future, we might introduce them to some form of design optimization as well.

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Boronkay, T. G., & Dave, J. (1997, June), Introduction Of Finite Element Methods In The Lower Division Mechanical Engineering Technology Curriculum Paper presented at 1997 Annual Conference, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 10.18260/1-2--6653