Lecturer: Alessandro Reali  

Course name: Nonlinear Computational Mechanics
Course code: 504989
Degree course: Bioingegneria, Ingegneria Civile
Disciplinary field of science: ICAR/08
University credits: ECTS 6
Course website: n.d.

Specific course objectives

This course aims at giving a concise introduction to the basic concepts of nonlinear mechanics of solids and at providing the basic ingredients to perform simulations of solid mechanics problems at large strains via the finite element method.

Course programme

Basics of nonlinear mechanics

• Kinematics
• Equilibrium
• Hyperelastic constitutive laws

Elements of numerical analysis

• Solution of nonlinear equations and systems
• Matlab implementation of basic algorithms

Nonlinear finite elements

• Basic concepts
• Application to 1D rods at large strains (and Matlab implementation)
• Application to 2D plane strain problems at large strains (and Matlab implementation)
• Use of a commercial nonlinear finite element code

Course entry requirements

A good knowledge of the basic concepts given within the courses of Mechanics of Solids and Structures, Numerical Analysis, and Computational Mechanics is required.

Course structure and teaching

Lectures (hours/year in lecture theatre): 45
Practical class (hours/year in lecture theatre): 0
Practicals / Workshops (hours/year in lecture theatre): 0

Suggested reading materials

Suggested references are (among others):

T.J.R. Hughes. The Finite Element Method: Linear Static and Dynamic Finite Element Analysis. Dover Publications.

J. Bonet, R.D. Wood. Nonlinear Continuum Mechanics for Finite Element Analysis. Cambridge University Press.

J.E. Marsden, T.J.R. Hughes. Mathematical Foundations of Elasticity. Dover Publications.

Testing and exams

Homework evaluation + oral discussion