
Pre-Analysis includes hand calculations to predict expected results while Verification and Validation can be thought of as a formal process for checking computer results. All tutorials have a common structure and use the same high-level steps starting with Pre-Analysis and ending with Verification and Validation . If a tutorial is from a course, the relevant course number is indicated below. The tutorial topics are drawn from Cornell University courses, the Prantil et al textbook, student/research projects etc. List of Learning ModulesĮach learning module below contains a step-by-step tutorial that shows details of how to solve a selected problem using ANSYS, a popular tool for finite-element analysis (FEA). The development of these learning modules is being supported by a Faculty Innovation in Teaching award from Cornell University. John Swanson, the founder of ANSYS Inc. and an alumnus of the Sibley School. The Swanson Engineering Simulation Program has been established with the goal of integrating computer-based simulations into the mechanical engineering curriculum. These learning modules have been developed by the Swanson Engineering Simulation Program in the Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Cornell University. Working through the problem sets is an intrinsic part of the learning process and shouldn't be skipped. Each learning module is followed by problems which are geared towards strengthening and reinforcing the knowledge and understanding gained in the learning modules. The user would be ill-served by clicking through the learning modules in zombie-mode. It is worthwhile for the user to understand the underlying concepts as she goes through the learning modules in order to be able to correctly apply ANSYS to other problems. We not only provide the solution steps but also the rationale behind them.

The learning modules lead the user through the steps involved in solving a selected set of problems using ANSYS. This ANSYS short course consists of a set of learning modules on using ANSYS to solve problems in solid mechanics.

ANSYS uses the finite-element method to solve the underlying governing equations and the associated problem-specific boundary conditions.
