COMPUTATIOAL METHODS FOR MET

Prof. Ti Lin, Liu

txlime@rit.edu
Rochester Institute of Technology
Department of Manufacturing & Mechanical Engineering Technology/Packaging Science
Abstract:
A one-credit, two-contact hours Computational Methods course was developed
for mechanical engineering technology sophomore student at Rochester Institute
of Technology. The purpose of this course provides a fundamental introduction to
computing methods, modeling and simulation for producing the quantitative
information in their design and analysis. The major topics include solution of
equations, numerical differentiation and integration, modeling, simulation, and
some applications in engineering technology fields. MathCAD equation Solver,
Microsoft Excel spreadsheet will be the major software for this course. Simulink
and ALGOR finite element analysis with Solid Works CAD input, and Working
Model 2D were also introduced and integrated in the learning process. Some
cases will be presented and some issues will be discussed.
Key Words: Microsoft Excel, Mathcad, Working Model 2D, Simulink, CAD/CAE
Introduction:

In general, the engineer can perform design without analysis, directly from invention to decision
on the strength of their experience. However, the basic rationale for engineering is that a better
job of design can be done with the intelligent application of science and mathematics than
without. In fact, the complicated design can be accomplished only with the assistance of
advanced mathematics and science (know-how). Without analysis phase, the person can design
some tools, but could not design a jet plane. It is primarily because of the analysis phase that
engineers go to college. Applying knowledge of science and engineering, the engineer constructs
a set of equations so called a mathematical model to produce the required information. The most
useful thing about the analysis phase of design is produce the quantitative information, and
optimum values selected that can be used as the basis of decision making. In computational
Methods, the updated computer will be used as the powerful tool for the analysis phase in
engineering design. Applications topics include statics (truss, frame), strength of materials (combined
stresses, deflection of beam with finite difference method), mechanical design (spring, joints connections,
gear, shaft), and dynamics (rocket, linkage, vibration). Some examples are illustrated below.

Examples:

1. Frame static force analysis. The frame is supported by a pin at point A and a link DE. Neglect
the weight of the members. Determine the reaction at pin A and the axial forces in members DE,
BD, and CD. First, the frame is solved in Excel. The sketch, free body diagram, and equations
for equilibrium are given. The solution of the frame is driven by input data. Second the frame is
solved in Mathcad. Both Excel and Mathcad are used as equation solver. (Appendix A and B)

2. Four bar linkage kinematic analysis in Excel with numerical differentiation. The
displacements of the linkage are driven analytically. The velocities and accelerations are solved
numerically. Both tabular and chart results of velocities and accelerations are given based on
center difference formulas with Working Model 2D simulation (Appendix C).

3. Short column with eccentric load. A 3D model in Solid Works is created with 3x4x8-in and
import into ALGOR FEMPRO meshing, imposing the boundary conditions /load and processing.
The comparison of the CAE results and strength of materials results is given to show the
limitation of results in strength of materials and the application of Saint-Venant's principle. The
Saint-Venant's principle allows engineers to replace complicated stress distributions or weak
boundary conditions into ones that are easier to solve, as long as that boundary is geometrically
short. The comparison of the stress results between CAE and strength of materials is given in
Excel. Results show that the stress results of strength of materials can be used at the bottom 2-in
area of the column. (Appendix D).
4. A car is traveling on a flat road under driving, damping, and brake forces. The car is driven by
a constant engine force F=1000-N. There is a damping force c*dx/dt is against the motion of
car. The differential equation is dv/dt=1/m(F-cv) which is a first-order differential equation for
the velocity of the car. Set m=1100-kg, c=40-N-S/m, F=1000-N. Determine the velocity of car
after 120-s. After 120-s, the driver brake and stop the car with -500-N braking force. Simulink is
a Matlab add-in that allows one to simulate a variety of engineering system. Simulink is a
different tool, which is much more graphical and visual for complex system. (Appendix E)

5. Helical compression spring design with user defined functions in Simulink. A spring is made
from music wire, ASTM A228 steel, where the free length of spring is 1.75-in, Outer diameter is
0.561-in, and the wire diameter is 0.055-in. The total number of coils is 10.0. The ends are
squared and ground. The operating load of spring is 14-lb. The approximately 300,000 cycles of
loading are expected. The Simulink is used as an equation solver in Simulink (Appendix F).

Discussion:

The computational methods provide data, simulation, and visualization of mechanical system.
Through advanced mathematical modeling and numerical solutions reflecting a combination of
concepts, method, and principles that are often interdisciplinary in nature of mechanics, and
mechanical design. The study of computational methods can increase the computer skills and
analytical skills for our student, who has had less mathematical background. This one-credit,
two-contact hour course is only an elementary introduction which can only provide a basic need
in the solution of technical problems in mechanical field. The application of these computer
skills in dynamics, machine design, vibration and other advances courses are more important
for our student to improve their analytical and computer skills.

Reference:

1. Ti Lin, Liu, Developing a New Graduate CourseComputer Aided Engineering ASME International
Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition, Nov. 5-11, 2005, Orlando, Florida

2. Ti Lin, Liu, Modernization of Engineering Mechanics Education with Computer Application,
Presentation for 1995 ASEE Annual Conference, Anaheim, CA, June 26, 1995, Session #1668




Appendix:
Appendix A. Frame Analysis in Excel:

Fig.1. Frame Analysis in Excel









Appendix B. Frame Analysis in MathCAD:




Fig.2. Frame Analysis in Mathcad











Appendix C. Four Bar Linkage Kinematic Analysis


Fig.3. Four-Bar linkage kinematic analysis with numerical differentiation in Excel


Fig.4. Four-Bar linkage kinematic analysis in Working Model 2D
Appendix D. Finite Element Analysis in ALGOR

Fig.5. Short column with eccentric load in Solid Works and ALGOR FEMPRO
Appendix E. Dynamics Analysis in SIMULIK

Fig.6. A car is traveling on a flat road under driving, damping, and brake forces, Simulink block
diagram and the graphical results of velocity versus time in the first 150 second are shown.

Appendix F. Spring Design in SIMULIK

Fig.7. Helical compression spring design with user defined functions in Simulink.