Project - Computer Aided Engineering (FSI-ZP9)

Graduates will understand the possibilities of applying CAE approaches in the design process and, based on solving a multiphysics problem, will be able to analyse a geometrically complex machine component subjected to dynamic mechanical and thermal loads.

• Ability to effectively apply analytical relations in component analysis.
• Ability to analyse a geometrically complex machine component in terms of kinematics, linear dynamics, mechanical loading (including thermomechanical effects), stress, and deformation.
• Knowledge of CAD/CAE approaches and tools for analysing advanced machine components under realistic operating conditions.
• Ability to analyse and critically discuss the obtained results.
• Ability to solve a complex engineering-design problem within a team, including presenting the achieved results.

Knowledge in the areas of technical mechanics, strength of materials, machine design, 3D modelling, thermomechanics, and finite element analysis.

The course provides an overview of analytical and numerical solutions for geometrically complex machine components subjected to combined loading while considering thermal effects (e.g., crankshaft, connecting rod, camshaft). Emphasis is placed on teamwork in solving a multiphysics task that includes kinematic and dynamic analysis, evaluation of mechanical and thermal loads on the component, preparation of the digital model, correct setup of numerical simulation inputs (boundary conditions, finite element mesh), and detailed analysis of the obtained results. The course integrates knowledge acquired in theoretical subjects of the bachelor’s programme in Mechanical Engineering Design, particularly in technical mechanics, strength of materials, 3D modelling, thermomechanics, and finite element analysis.

Conditions for obtaining the course credit (0–100 points, minimum required: 50):

• active participation in seminars through consultations (min. 10 out of 20 points),
• submission of the project in the required scope (min. 40 out of 80 points).

Conditions for passing the examination (0–100 points, minimum required: 50):

• team defence of the project solution before a committee (min. 20 out of 40 points),
• individual professional examination before a committee on topics related to the project and corresponding to the required prerequisites (min. 30 out of 60 points),
• a total of up to 100 points can be earned; the final grade is determined according to the ECTS scale.

Lectures: attendance is recommended.

Seminars: attendance is mandatory and monitored by the instructor; a maximum of two absences is permitted. In the case of long-term absence, the possibility of substituting missed classes is at the discretion of the course coordinator.

• CAE in the design process.


• Fundamentals of numerical methods for ordinary differential equations.


• Solving multiphysics problems using the finite element method (FEM).

• Formation of project teams, task analysis, and competence allocation.


• Literature review of the assigned problem, theoretical foundations of the solution.


• Kinematic and dynamic analysis of the assigned component.


• Analysis of mechanical loads, definition of boundary conditions.


• FEM task – geometry model.


• FEM task – boundary conditions and finite element mesh.


• FEM task (static) – calculation of stresses and deformations, analysis of results.


• FEM task (linear dynamic) – inclusion of dynamic effects.


• FEM task (multiphysics) – inclusion of thermal effects.


• Geometry optimisation of the component.

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