Q1

a) What is discrete event simulation (DES)?

Discrete event simulation (DES) is a modeling technique used to simulate real-world systems in order
to study and analyze their behavior. In DES, the system is represented as a series of discrete events
that occur at specific points in time, such as the arrival of a customer or the completion of a task.
These events trigger changes in the system's state, which in turn affect future events.
DES is used in a wide range of fields, including manufacturing, healthcare, transportation, and
computer networks, to help decision-makers evaluate different scenarios, optimize processes, and
improve performance. By modeling the interactions between different components of a system and
simulating their behavior over time, DES can provide valuable insights into the system's operation
and help identify opportunities for improvement.
b) What is the connection between modelling and simulation?
Modelling and simulation are closely related concepts that are often used together in various fields,
such as engineering, science, and economics.
Modeling involves creating a simplified representation of a system or process using mathematical
equations, algorithms, or other tools. This model can be used to understand how the system works,
make predictions about its behavior, or test different scenarios.
Simulation, on the other hand, involves using a model to mimic the behavior of a system over time.
By running simulations with different inputs or parameters, researchers can explore how changes in
the system impact its overall performance.
The connection between modelling and simulation is that a model is typically used as the basis for a
simulation. The model defines the rules and relationships that govern the system being studied, while
the simulation allows researchers to observe how the system evolves over time under different
conditions.
In summary, modelling is the process of creating a representation of a system, while simulation is the
process of using that representation to study the system's behavior. Together, they provide a powerful
tool for understanding complex systems and predicting their outcomes.

c) What is the role of product engineer in an engineering design office?

The primary responsibility of a product engineer is to bridge the gap between design and production.
They are the ones who take the design concepts and turn them into tangible products. Allow me to
shed some light on their key roles and responsibilities:
1. Design Implementation: The product engineer takes the design specifications and translates them
into detailed engineering drawings and technical documentation. They ensure that the design can be
efficiently manufactured, assembled, and tested.
2. Prototyping and Testing: A product engineer is involved in the prototyping phase, where they
oversee the fabrication of prototypes and conduct rigorous testing to validate the design's
functionality, performance, and reliability. They analyze the test results and provide feedback for
design improvements.
3. Manufacturing Support: Product engineers collaborate closely with manufacturing teams to ensure
smooth production processes. They address any issues that arise during manufacturing, troubleshoot
problems, and make design modifications if necessary to enhance manufacturability and efficiency.
4. Quality Control: The product engineer plays a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing product
quality. They define quality standards, establish inspection procedures, and implement quality control
measures throughout the production process. They may also conduct failure analysis and implement
corrective actions.

1
 5. Continuous Improvement: Product engineers are always striving for improvement. They analyze
product performance, customer feedback, and market trends to identify areas for enhancement. They
work closely with design teams to update and optimize product designs based on real-world feedback.
To excel as a product engineer, it's important to have a strong foundation in engineering principles,
excellent problem-solving skills, and attention to detail. Additionally, staying updated with industry
trends, manufacturing processes, and emerging technologies will help you stay ahead in the field.
If you have any specific questions or need assistance with Java programming related to product
engineering, feel free to ask. I'm here to help!product designs
Overall, a product engineer plays a key role in the design and development process, helping to bring
innovative and high-quality products to market.

d) Describe the process of simulating a mechanical rotor in Solid Work environment

To simulate a mechanical rotor in SolidWorks, you can follow these general steps:
1. Model Creation: Begin by creating a 3D model of the rotor in SolidWorks. Use the appropriate
sketching and solid modeling tools to define the geometry, dimensions, and features of the rotor.
Ensure that you accurately represent its physical characteristics.
2. Material Assignment: Assign the appropriate material properties to the rotor model. Specify the
material type, such as steel or aluminum, and provide the relevant mechanical properties like density,
Young's modulus, and Poisson's ratio. This information is crucial for accurate simulation results.
3. Define Constraints: Identify the constraints or boundary conditions that the rotor will experience
during the simulation. For example, you may fix certain points or surfaces to represent the rotor's
mounting or support structure. Constraints help simulate real-world scenarios and interactions.
4. Apply Loads: Determine the loads acting on the rotor during operation. These loads can include
forces, moments, or rotational speeds. Depending on the specific application, you may need to
consider centrifugal forces, aerodynamic forces, or external forces acting on the rotor. Apply these
loads to appropriate regions or faces of the model.
5. Mesh Generation: Generate a mesh for the rotor model. Meshing breaks down the model into
smaller elements to simulate the behavior of the rotor more accurately. Use SolidWorks' meshing
tools to create a suitable mesh density, balancing accuracy and computational efficiency.
6. Simulation Setup: Set up the simulation parameters and analysis type in SolidWorks Simulation.
Choose the appropriate analysis type, such as static analysis or dynamics analysis, depending on the
behavior you want to simulate. Configure settings like solver options, convergence criteria, and time
steps for dynamic analysis.
7. Run Simulation: Run the simulation to obtain the results. SolidWorks will solve the equations and
simulate the rotor's behavior based on the defined constraints, loads, and material properties. This
process may take some time, depending on the complexity of the model and the analysis type.
8. Results Analysis: Once the simulation completes, review and analyze the results. SolidWorks
provides various visualization tools to examine the rotor's deformation, stress distribution,
displacement, or any other relevant parameters. Use these tools to gain insights into the rotor's
performance and identify potential design improvements.
Remember, simulating a mechanical rotor in SolidWorks requires a good understanding of both the
software and the underlying engineering principles. It's essential to validate your simulation results
against real-world data or other analytical methods to ensure accuracy.
If you have any specific questions or need further assistance with SolidWorks or Java programming in
the engineering domain, feel free to ask. I'm here to help you along your engineering journey!

Q2
a) Develop 1DoF FEM displacement equation for strut, leading to two shape functions

2
b) Establish the element stiffness matrix in local coordinate system using minimization of total potential
energy
c) Establish the transformation matrix for stiffness matrix

Q3
The fast-food company situated at the Osun mall has a drive through system for ordering food. The
driver gets to the ordering point and makes the order before advancing to order collection after
payment. Two possible scenarios are that the driver orders successfully or there is no space to place
the order and the driver drives off. The two consequences are gain and loss of sales. Describe the
sequences of operation and identify all the entities, variables, resources, events and calendar.
Sequences of operation:

1. Driver approaches the drive-through ordering point.

2. Driver places an order for food.
3. System checks for availability of space to place the order.
4. If space is available, order is accepted and driver advances to order collection.
5. Driver makes payment for the order.
6. Food is collected by the driver.
7. If space is not available, driver drives off without placing an order.

Entities:
- Driver
- Fast-food company
- Drive-through ordering point
- Food order
- Payment
- Food collection

Variables:
- Driver's order
- Availability of space at the ordering point
- Payment amount
- Food items

Resources:
- Food items
- Ordering point
- Payment system

Events:
- Driver places an order
- System checks for space availability
- Order is accepted/rejected
- Driver makes payment
- Food is collected

Calendar:
- Opening and closing hours of the fast-food company

3
 - Peak hours for drive-through orders
- Periodic maintenance schedule for ordering point and payment system

Q4
a) What are the characteristics of Finite Element Method?
1. Flexibility: The Finite Element Method (FEM) can handle complex geometries, material properties,
and boundary conditions, making it a versatile tool for solving a wide range of engineering problems.
2. Accuracy: FEM provides accurate solutions for a wide range of problems, especially for linear and
nonlinear structural analysis.
3. Efficiency: FEM can efficiently analyze large and complex systems by dividing them into smaller,
more manageable elements.
4. Adaptability: FEM can easily be adapted to different types of problems and can be used in
conjunction with other analysis methods.
5. Versatility: FEM can be used to analyze different physical phenomena such as structural
mechanics, heat transfer, fluid flow, and electromagnetic fields.
6. Validation: FEM results can be validated through experimental testing, ensuring the accuracy of the
analysis.
7. Software availability: Many commercial and open-source software packages are available for FEM
analysis, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
8. Boundary conditions: FEM allows for the application of different boundary conditions, such as
fixed displacements, applied forces, and prescribed temperatures.
9. Mesh generation: FEM requires the generation of a mesh, which discretizes the domain into smaller
elements. The quality of the mesh directly affects the accuracy of the results.
10. Convergence: FEM solutions converge to the correct answer as the number of elements in the
mesh increases, ensuring the accuracy of the results.
b) What element types with explanation, are used for planar truss and frame?
For the analysis of planar trusses and frames using the Finite Element Method (FEM), different
element types can be used. The choice of element type depends on the specific characteristics of the
structure and the desired level of accuracy. Here are some commonly used element types for planar
trusses and frames, along with their explanations:

1. Truss Elements (1D Elements):

Truss elements are commonly used for analyzing planar trusses, which are structures composed of
slender members connected at their ends. Truss elements represent the members as one-dimensional
(1D) line elements. They are characterized by axial stiffness and can only resist axial forces. Each
truss element has two nodes at its ends, representing the connection points.
2. Beam Elements (1D Elements):
Beam elements are suitable for analyzing planar frames, which consist of beams or columns
connected at their ends to form a framework. Beam elements represent the members as 1D line
elements but account for both axial and bending stiffness. They can resist axial forces and bending
moments. Beam elements have two nodes at their ends, allowing for the representation of the
connection points.
3. Plane Stress/Strain Elements (2D Elements):
Plane stress/strain elements are used when analyzing thin planar structures subject to in-plane loads.
These elements consider two dimensions (x-y plane) but neglect the out-of-plane behavior (z-axis).
Plane stress elements are suitable for analyzing structures subject to loads that cause stress variations
in the x-y plane, such as plates or membranes. Plane strain elements are used for structures where
stress variations only occur in the x-y plane, such as thick plates or beams. These elements have three

4
 or four nodes, allowing for more accurate representation of complex geometries and stress
distributions.
4. Shell Elements (2D Elements):
Shell elements are used for analyzing thin-walled structures, such as roofs or shells. These elements
capture both in-plane and out-of-plane behavior. Shell elements are characterized by their ability to
resist bending and membrane forces. They have a mid-surface and thickness, enabling the
representation of complex shell geometries. Shell elements typically have four or more nodes,
providing a more accurate representation of stress and deformation distribution.
5. Solid Elements (3D Elements):
Although planar trusses and frames are primarily two-dimensional structures, solid elements can be
used for a more comprehensive analysis when three-dimensional effects need to be considered. Solid
elements represent the structure as a three-dimensional entity, accounting for all three dimensions (x,
y, z). They are suitable for analyzing structures with complex geometries and loads that induce out-of-
plane behavior. Solid elements have multiple nodes and can accurately capture stress and deformation
distribution.
These element types provide different levels of accuracy and complexity in analyzing planar trusses
and frames. The selection of the appropriate element type depends on the specific requirements of the
problem, such as the structural geometry, loading conditions, and the level of detail needed in the
analysis.
c) What is the essence of boundary conditions application in FEM?
Boundary conditions are essential in the Finite Element Method (FEM) because they define the
behavior of the structure or system at its boundaries. Without appropriate boundary conditions, the
FEM analysis would not be able to accurately predict the response of the structure to external loads or
constraints.
Boundary conditions are used to enforce constraints on the displacements, stresses, strains, or other
properties at specific points or surfaces of the structure. By applying the correct boundary conditions,
the FEM model can be accurately calibrated to represent the real-world behavior of the structure.
In essence, boundary conditions ensure that the FEM analysis accurately captures the interactions
between the different components of the structure and how they respond to external loads. They play a
crucial role in determining the accuracy and reliability of the FEM results, making them a
fundamental aspect of the analysis process.
d) Describe the essence of transformation from local to global coordinate systems
Local coordinates refer to the coordinates specific to each structural element, such as beams or
columns, while global coordinates represent the overall coordinate system of the structure as a whole.
The transformation from local to global coordinates involves determining the position, orientation,
and displacement of each element in the global coordinate system. This allows us to accurately
analyze how the forces and deformations in each element contribute to the overall behavior of the
structure.

To perform this transformation, we typically utilize transformation matrices. These matrices capture
the relationship between local and global coordinates and allow us to convert between the two
coordinate systems

Q5
a) Develop 2DoF FEM displacement equation for flexure, leading to four shape functions
b) Establish the element stiffness matrix in local coordinate system using minimization of total potential
energy

5
Q6

a) Establish an algorithm for Gaussian triangulation

b) Using Gaussian Elimination Method, solve the following linear equations completely.

9x1 + 3x2 + 4x3 = 7

4x1 + 3x2 + 4x3 = 8
x1 + x2 + x3 = 3

Q7
a) Define total potential energy and explain its components
To comprehend its components, we must explore the two primary contributors to the total
potential energy:

1. Strain Energy: This component arises from the deformation or strain within the
structural elements. When external loads act upon a structure, it undergoes
deformation, causing a redistribution of internal forces. The strain energy is a measure
of the work done by these internal forces during the deformation process.

The formula to calculate strain energy depends on the specific type of deformation
and the material behavior. For example, in linear elastic structures, the strain energy can
be expressed as:

SE = 0.5 * ∫(σ * ε) dV

Where:
SE is the strain energy,
σ represents the stress within the material,
ε represents the corresponding strain, and
dV denotes the volume element over which the integration is performed.

This integral accounts for the strain energy contributions across the entire structure.

2. External Work: This component accounts for the work done by external loads acting
upon the structure. When external forces are applied to a structure, they produce
displacements and induce work within the system. The external work is a measure of the
work done by these applied loads.

6
 The formula to calculate external work depends on the specific loading conditions. For
example, in the case of a point load applied to a structure, the external work can be
expressed as:

W=F*δ

Where:
W is the external work,
F represents the applied force, and
δ represents the corresponding displacement caused by the applied force.

This equation captures the work done by external forces on the structure.

By summing up the strain energy and the external work, we obtain the total potential
energy of the structure. This quantity provides insights into the equilibrium and stability
of the system under the given loading conditions.

I hope this explanation sheds light on the components of total potential energy in
structural analysis. Should you have any further inquiries or require assistance with
coding related to structural analysis, please feel free to ask.
b) Hypothetically explain the principle of minimization of total potential energy
The principle of minimization of total potential energy is a fundamental concept in
physics that states that the system will evolve over time to a state where its total
potential energy is at a minimum. This means that the system will tend to move towards
a configuration where it has less potential energy, or where the potential energy is more
evenly distributed among its components.

To understand this principle, let's consider a simple example. Imagine you have a ball
sitting on top of a hill. The ball has some potential energy due to its height above the
ground. If we were to push the ball down the hill, it would roll down and gain kinetic
energy as it moves. However, if we were to stop the ball at any point on its way down
the hill, it would still have some potential energy left, which would be converted into
heat due to friction.

Now, imagine that we could somehow magically make the ball roll back up the hill
without any external input of energy. As it rolls back up the hill, it would convert its
kinetic energy into potential energy, and eventually reach the same height from which it
started. But here's the thing: the ball didn't just stop at any random height on its way
back up the hill. It stopped at the exact same height from which it started, because that
was the configuration with the least amount of potential energy.

7
 This is the principle of minimization of total potential energy in action. The system (in
this case, the ball) will always tend to move towards a state where its total potential
energy is at a minimum. This is why objects tend to settle into a stable equilibrium state,
rather than oscillating forever.

In summary, the principle of minimization of total potential energy states that a system
will evolve over time to a state where its total potential energy is at a minimum. This
means that the system will tend to move towards a configuration where it has less
potential energy, or where the potential energy is more evenly distributed among its
components.
c) The three-spring arrangement shown in figure 7c is fixed at Node 1 and 2 and the axial
force of P = 1000 N is applied at Node 4. The spring stiffness are k1 = 105 N/m, k2 = 2 x
105 N/m, k3 = 3 x 105 N/m. Determine the displacements at nodes 3 and 4 and the reaction
at node 1 and 2

k1

1 3
4
1 k3

k2 3 P
2
2

U1,2 U3 U4

To determine the displacement at nodes 3 and 4, we need to solve the following equations:

1. At node 3:

P - k1(x3 - x1) - k2(x3 - x2) = 0

where x1 and x2 are the displacements at nodes 1 and 2, respectively.

2. At node 4:

8
k3(x4 - x3) + P = 0

We can solve these equations by using the method of substitution. First, we can solve equation 1 for
x3:

x3 = (P - k1x1 - k2x2) / (k1 + k2)

Next, we can substitute this expression for x3 into equation 2:

k3((P - k1x1 - k2x2) / (k1 + k2) - x4) + P = 0

Simplifying this expression, we get:

(k1 + k2 - k3)(x4 - x1 - x2) = 0

Since k1 + k2 - k3 is not equal to zero, we can conclude that x4 - x1 - x2 = 0. Therefore, the

displacement at node 4 is equal to the sum of the displacements at nodes 1 and 2.

Finally, we can use the fact that the sum of the forces in the x direction is equal to zero to find the
reaction at node 1 and 2:

P - k1x1 - k2x2 = 0

Solving for x1 and x2, we get:

x1 = (P - k2x2) / (k1 + k2)

x2 = (P - k1x1) / (k1 + k2)

9
Substituting these expressions into the equation for the reaction at node 1, we get:

F1 = k1x1 + k2x2

= (k1 + k2)((P - k2x2) / (k1 + k2) + (P - k1x1) / (k1 + k2))

= P - k2x2 - k1x1

Similarly, substituting these expressions into the equation for the reaction at node 2, we get:

F2 = k1x1 + k2x2

= (k1 + k2)((P - k2x2) / (k1 + k2) + (P - k1x1) / (k1 + k2))

= P - k2x2 - k1x1

Therefore, the reaction at node 1 and 2 is equal to the difference between the applied load and the
sum of the displacements at nodes 1 and 2.

Figure 7c: The spring – force arrangement

10