Analysing contact phenomena in a commercial finite element code

Applications are invited for a PhD scholarship at the University ofPlymouth, starting in October 2006 or as soon as possible after this date.The project will investigate the use of contact models embedded in acommercial finite element code. In particular, the project will focus onlarge strain problems and/or dynamics contact issues.

Many manufacturing processes such as metal forming involve contact betweentwo or more components. Interactions also frequently occur in manystructural and mechanical situations, for example in gearing mechanisms andbolted connections. Experimental studies of these (and other) contactscenarios can be a complex and expensive task, and the application of simpleanalytical methods can be limited due to the need to idealise the situation.To simplify the problem it is often necessary to make assumptions regardingthe geometry and loading conditions.

Today, it is feasible to conduct a detailed study of contact problems usingthe finite element method, but solutions for complex simulations, such asproblems that include interactions with hyper-elastic (rubber) materials,can still fail to deliver a close correlation with physical test data.Modern, commercial finite element programs can often contain contact modelsthat require twenty or more inputs. These inputs influence the contactalgorithms but can be ill-defined and are often not fully understood by theuser, and there is a lack of benchmark problems to provide standardisation,particularly for dynamic contact problems. The successful applicant willconsider the development of simple benchmark problems and examine therelevance and reliability of contact models for simulating the interactionbetween two bodies.

The Faculty Fee Scholarship is for 3 years and is for tuition fees for ahome/EU student (approximately £3170 per annum). The Studentship does notcover the difference (approximately £5705) between the home/EU tuition feeand the tuition fee for an overseas student. However, other funds may beavailable to partly cover this difference and applications fromwell-qualified overseas candidates are therefore welcome.

To apply, you must have a background in an engineering related subject (e.g.mechanical engineering, civil engineering, materials engineering orsimilar). The candidate should have or be expected to obtain a 2(i) degreeand have an interest in finite element modelling. A fees scholarship isavailable for well qualified candidates.

Informal enquiries may be made to Dr Wayne Hall, on 01752 233653 or emailwayne.hall@plymouth.ac.uk although applications must be made in accordancewith the details shown below.

Applications forms can be down loaded from the university web sitehttp://www.plymouth.ac.uk/pages/view.asp?page=5731 or can be obtained fromMrs C Watson, Research Administrator by email c.watson@plymouth.ac.uk

CLOSING DATE: 12 NOON, WEDNESDAY 27 SEPTEMBER 2006