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Enhancing the teaching of linear structural analysis using additive manufacturing

Publication ,  Journal Article
Virgin, L
Published in: Engineering Structures
November 1, 2017

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.

Duke Scholars

Published In

Engineering Structures

DOI

EISSN

1873-7323

ISSN

0141-0296

Publication Date

November 1, 2017

Volume

150

Start / End Page

135 / 142

Related Subject Headings

  • Civil Engineering
  • 4016 Materials engineering
  • 4005 Civil engineering
  • 0915 Interdisciplinary Engineering
  • 0912 Materials Engineering
  • 0905 Civil Engineering
 

Citation

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ICMJE
MLA
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Virgin, L. (2017). Enhancing the teaching of linear structural analysis using additive manufacturing. Engineering Structures, 150, 135–142. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.engstruct.2017.07.054
Virgin, L. “Enhancing the teaching of linear structural analysis using additive manufacturing.” Engineering Structures 150 (November 1, 2017): 135–42. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.engstruct.2017.07.054.
Virgin L. Enhancing the teaching of linear structural analysis using additive manufacturing. Engineering Structures. 2017 Nov 1;150:135–42.
Virgin, L. “Enhancing the teaching of linear structural analysis using additive manufacturing.” Engineering Structures, vol. 150, Nov. 2017, pp. 135–42. Scopus, doi:10.1016/j.engstruct.2017.07.054.
Virgin L. Enhancing the teaching of linear structural analysis using additive manufacturing. Engineering Structures. 2017 Nov 1;150:135–142.
Journal cover image

Published In

Engineering Structures

DOI

EISSN

1873-7323

ISSN

0141-0296

Publication Date

November 1, 2017

Volume

150

Start / End Page

135 / 142

Related Subject Headings

  • Civil Engineering
  • 4016 Materials engineering
  • 4005 Civil engineering
  • 0915 Interdisciplinary Engineering
  • 0912 Materials Engineering
  • 0905 Civil Engineering