Enhancing the teaching of linear structural analysis using additive manufacturing

•Innovative use of 3D printing.•Frame stiffness.•Sway approximations.•Experimental testing. Structural analysis forms a key component in many courses in civil, mechanical and aerospace engineering. Conventionally, the matrix stiffness method, a subset of finite element analysis, tends to occupy a ce...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Engineering structures 2017-11, Vol.150, p.135-142
Main Author: Virgin, Lawrence
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
3D printing
Additive manufacturing
Aerospace engineering
Black boxes
Education
Finite element analysis
Finite element method
Flexural stiffness
Frames
Linear algebra
Manufacturing
Mathematical analysis
Mathematical models
Numerical analysis
Printing
Set theory
Stiffness
Structural analysis
Structural engineering
Thermoplastic
Three dimensional printing
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Summary:•Innovative use of 3D printing.•Frame stiffness.•Sway approximations.•Experimental testing. Structural analysis forms a key component in many courses in civil, mechanical and aerospace engineering. Conventionally, the matrix stiffness method, a subset of finite element analysis, tends to occupy a central position in a typical syllabus, with a special focus on plane frames providing a bridge between basic structural components with pedagogical clarity and real-world structures. Equations of equilibrium are set-up and the full force of linear algebra brought to bear using the capabilities of Matlab or more specialized FEA packages. Such classes have a tendency to become a little dry and suffer from the usual shortcomings of numerical analysis and a black box approach - shortcomings in the sense of conceptual understanding as opposed to usefulness in the hands of experienced practitioners. The relatively recent advent of additive manufacturing is an exciting opportunity to incorporate a practical aspect to structural analysis. This paper describes the use of 3D printing, via the flexural stiffness of plane frames, to develop a structural feel for students, augmenting theoretical analyses. In addition to directly addressing the role of modeling, approximation, applicability of the underlying theory, and measurement uncertainty, it is thoroughly hands-on and initial anecdotal evidence suggests a higher degree of student buy-in.
ISSN:0141-0296
1873-7323
DOI:10.1016/j.engstruct.2017.07.054