48371 Advanced Engineering Computing

Requisite(s): 48221 Informatics: Visual Basic AND 48349 Structural Analysis

The objective of this subject is for students to develop competencies in advanced computational methods used in civil engineering, particularly in the preparation and analysis of mathematical models that are frequently applied in structural engineering. The subject also develops modelling and programming skills using a wide range of software tools.

In terms of numerical techniques, the subject includes primary topics such as solution techniques for simultaneous linear equations and nonlinear equations, finite difference, numerical differentiation and integration, numerical solution of ordinary and partial differential equations and the solution of eigenvalue problems. Basic concepts of the Finite Element Method and its application in a wide range of engineering problems is also introduced. Other topics introduced include optimisation and linear programming, fuzzy logic and genetic algorithms. The effects of errors introduced by idealisation and numerical processes are discussed where applicable.