Course contents
This course provides an advanced introduction to Finite Element Analysis (FEA) applied to multi-physical domains. The training focuses on the theoretical and practical aspects of structural, thermal, and electrical field simulations, exploring how these physical dimensions interact within complex engineering systems and device design.
The curriculum begins with a general introduction to the fundamental aspects of Finite Element Analysis across structural, thermal, and electrical disciplines. Initial modules cover structural modeling using plane and solid elements, followed by detailed thermal analyses implementing conduction, convection, and radiation. A significant portion of the course is dedicated to multi-physics simulations, where students explore the synergies between physical fields through coupled thermal-structural and electrical-thermal analyses, culminating in comprehensive electrical-thermal-structural modeling. The program concludes with the presentation of a complex, real-world test case. This final module provides hands-on experience in integrating all the aforementioned physical fields, with a specific focus on the challenges and best practices related to the import and refinement of complex geometries for high-fidelity simulations.
Learning goals
By the conclusion of the course, participants will master the capability to perform sophisticated structural and thermal analyses using both plane and solid elements. Students will develop advanced skills in implementing and simulating complex coupled-field phenomena, including thermal-structural, electrical-thermal, and fully integrated electrical-thermal-structural interactions. Additionally, the course provides the necessary tools to manage the import of complex geometries and apply FEA methodologies to realistic, high-level test cases.
Suggested readings
M. Manzolaro, G. Meneghetti, A. Andrighetto, Thermal–electric numerical simulation of a surface ion source for the production of radioactive ion beams, Nucl. Instrum. Methods Phys. Res., Sect. A 623 (2010) 1061–1069.
G. Meneghetti, M. Manzolaro, A. Andrighetto, Thermal–electric numerical simulation of a target for the production of radioactive ion beams, Finite Elem. Anal. Des. 47 (2011) 559–570.
M. Manzolaro, G. Meneghetti, INTRODUCTION TO THE THERMAL ANALYSIS WITH ANSYS® NUMERICAL CODE, edizioni LIBRERIA PROGETTO, 2014, Padova, ITALY.
G. Meneghetti, M. Manzolaro, M. Quaresimin, INTRODUCTION TO THE STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS WITH ANSYS® NUMERICAL CODE, edizioni LIBRERIA PROGETTO, 2014, Padova, ITALY.
