Project and Construction Management

The subject is developed through a logical and coherent path that favors an approach with a gradual increase in analytical-mathematical complexity, formulating mathematical models characterized by easy implementation in automatic computation codes, for structures that are naturally discrete or can be discretized through the finite element method. Topics traditionally covered in introductory finite element courses are analyzed, with some insights into more advanced aspects. The solution of the linear problem is enriched with some considerations on the introduction of geometric and constitutive nonlinearities. - Principles and general objectives - Direct stiffness method - Direct stiffness method applied to the topic of truss and frame structures, static condensation in the definition of three-dimensional or pseudo-three-dimensional models of space frames - Introductory elements of dynamic models through d’Alembert’s principle - Finite element method as a method for discretizing continuous structures, variational and integral formulations of the elastic problem - One-dimensional structures and beam finite elements - Two-dimensional structures and two-dimensional finite elements - Three-dimensional elastic problem and three-dimensional finite elements - Fundamental concepts of geometric and constitutive nonlinearity - Advanced algorithmic and modeling aspects

To successfully follow this course, a basic knowledge of the following subjects is required: linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, differential equations, solid and structural mechanics, and introductory computer science for engineering (ability to use numerical computation tools and modeling software).

Analisi Strutturale con il Metodo degli Elementi Finiti. Vincenzo Gattulli, Luana Pinnetti, Cecilia Rinaldi, Gangemi Editore, 2025

Class attendance is not mandatory.

The assessment of acquired knowledge is carried out through the construction of examples for the identification of action models and the structural system, and their implementation in computational codes. This process completes and extends theoretical knowledge and operational procedures for the analysis of structures, while enhancing specific skills for setting up and developing the structural analysis of both new and existing complex constructions.

Lectures are conducted at the blackboard, with occasional use of slides, to allow students to follow in real time the development of reasoning, demonstrations, and the solving of exercises. Lectures are accompanied by practical exercises that engage students in preparing two assignments, which are presented during the exam.