Modelling and simulation of mechanical systems

Course Objectives and Overview

The course aims to enable students to independently create and validate numerical models to simulate the dynamic response of complex mechanical systems subjected to time-varying forces or force fields dependent on the system states.

The course covers the distinction between discrete and continuous systems, enabling students to identify the most suitable problem-solving approach to recognize and numerically represent both types, as well as apply appropriate computer-implementable discretization techniques.

The mechanical systems studied include:

• Lumped-parameter discrete systems (mass, stiffness, and damping) with n degrees of freedom, such as machinery and vehicle suspensions, aeroelastic phenomena in airfoils, etc.
• Continuous systems such as cables and beams.
• Continuum discretization techniques.

Dublin Descriptors

1. Applying Knowledge and Understanding

• Formulation and Modeling: Establishing the ability to formulate and develop numerical models capable of simulating the dynamic response of complex mechanical systems in both time and frequency domains, as well as evaluating their stability in relation to applied force fields.
• Methodological Fundamentals: Acquiring fundamental theoretical concepts regarding mechanical system discretization techniques.
• Software and Problem Solving: Mastering appropriate calculation software (e.g., MATLAB®) to solve complex simulation problems for analyzing and comparing different design solutions.

2. Making Judgements / Professional Profile

• Applicability and Sustainability: The acquired skills can be directly applied to quality management within organizations in the civil, industrial, and service sectors, in alignment with Goals 9, 11, and 12 of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

3. Communication Skills and Teamwork

• Teamwork and Project Development: Ability to operate effectively within project teams to produce group engineering assignments, developing skills in collaboration, task coordination, and workload management in complex operational contexts.
• Presentation and Reporting: Ability to clearly, critically, and concisely present and defend project results developed in group settings, engaging constructively with team members and external stakeholders.

Taught class, Matlab lessons, vibration Lab.

Should teaching be carried out in mixed mode or remotely, it may be necessary to introduce changes with respect to previous statements, in line with the programme planned and outlined in the syllabus.

Newton laws and their numerical formulation (Essential)

Theory of second order differential equations and solution methods (Important)

Modeling of n-degrees of freedom mechanical systems with lumped parameters: motion equations, basic principles of multibody method, non-linear static equilibrium calculation, linear analysis (eigensolution and frequency response), modal decomposition, linear systems with non-linear forces and time integration. Examples in Matlab ® (suspension units, ride-comfort of a passenger car).

Vibration in continuous systems: cables and beams, frequencies and modes calculation, modal decomposition, structural and hysteretical damping.

Finite Element Method: shape functions for 1-D elements (cables and beams), calculation examples, frequency response function, Matlab examples.

Mechanical systems with 1 or 2 dofs subjected to force fields: analysis of stability and practical examples (airfoils, bearings, Matlab exercises).

Vehicle dynamics: tire-to-road interaction, basic models for longitudinal and lateral dynamics in pure-slip, stability in turns, quarter-car model.

Basic principles of experimental modal analysis with practical examples at laboratory and measurements of vibration.

1) G. Diana, F. Cheli, “Advanced Dynamics of Mechanical Systems”, Springer

2) G. Genta, L.Morello, "The automotive chassis", Volume 2: system design, Springer

Learning assessment may also be carried out on line, should the conditions require it.

To guarantee equal opportunities and in compliance with current legislation, interested students may request a personal interview to arrange any compensatory and/or dispensatory measures, based on the learning objectives and specific needs. Students may also contact the departmental representative for CInAP (Center for Active and Participatory Integration — Services for Disabilities and/or Specific Learning Disabilities): https://www.cinap.unict.it/content/referenti.

Available on:

http://studium.unict.it