A Technical Elective Course in Modeling and Simulation - Teaching the Capabilities and Limitations of Professional-level Software

The mechanical engineering program at California State University Chico includes a required junior level course in Finite Element Analysis (FEA). Students learn the theory of the method and receive some basic instruction in the proper use of commercial software, SolidWorks Simulation in this case. Due to time constraints and the necessary instruction in FEA theory, the exposure to commercial software is limited to basic linear elastic studies. While important concepts such as element choice, mesh quality, and appropriate boundary conditions are covered, no advanced capabilities, such as nonlinear analysis, time dependency, impact, buckling, or fluid flow are explored. The demand for a continuation course on the subject has become increasingly clear over the past several years. Commonly, a significant portion of the students completing the required course have expressed a direct and forthwith desire to learn more about the subject. Industrial partners, both advisory committee members and Capstone Design Program sponsors, have communicated the desire for additional competencies in recent graduates. Finally, several years’ mentorship of Capstone Design Projects has made clear the frequent opportunity for students to perform more advanced modeling and simulation analyses. In response, a technical elective course titled Modeling and Simulation was developed. The course carries pre-requisites of solid modeling, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, finite elements, and machine design. The primary intent of the course is to explore the advanced capabilities of professional level simulation software while importantly understanding the underlying assumptions and limitations of the various analysis techniques. Outcomes include giving students wide exposure to advanced simulation tools they are likely to encounter in the workplace while equipping them with sufficient understanding of their proper use and limitations.