B1979 - Laboratory of computer-aid technical drawing for composites P

Learning outcomes

The student acquires the essential practical knowledge for the intelligent and conscious use of solid and surface-based 3D modeling systems, aimed at the creation of complex composite material constructions. They apply assembly-oriented modeling and develop the necessary skills to produce and interpret two-dimensional drawings and technical plans in accordance with current standards.

Course contents

The student will acquire advanced skills in the design and simulation of composite components, with a particular focus on polymer matrix composites, through an update and extension of previously acquired knowledge. Advanced 3D CAD software tools will be explored in depth, both for three-dimensional modeling and for the production of 2D technical drawings.

Students will learn to use specific tools for generating layout books and project drawings, effectively managing the entire technical documentation process. In addition, simulation techniques will be introduced to assess technological limitations in the manufacturing of complex components, with the goal of anticipating potential issues and optimizing the production process.

Finally, the student will learn to use finite element analysis (FEA) to simulate the mechanical behavior of composite materials, developing the ability to predict the structural performance of the designed components.

Readings/Bibliography

Brückner, S., Allegra, G., Pegoraro, M., La Mantia, F. P., Di Landro, L., Malinconico, M., Scaffaro, R., Paoletti, S., Donati, I. (2007). Scienza e tecnologia dei materiali polimerici (2ª ed.). ISBN 978‑8879594233

Badini, C. (2013). Materiali compositi per l’ingegneria (Collana Strumenti per l’ingegneria). CELID. ISBN 978‑8876619922 (ed. aggiornata, prima ed. 2003 ISBN 978‑8876615894)

Cecchini, C. (2006). Plastiche: i materiali del possibile. Polimeri e compositi tra design e architettura. Alinea (Collana Design è…). ISBN 978‑8881258741





Matthews, F. L., Davies, G. A. O., & Hitchings, D. (2000). Finite Element Modelling of Composite Materials and Structures. Woodhead Publishing (CRC Press). ISBN 978‑1855734227

Barbero, E. J. (2014). Finite Element Analysis of Composite Materials Using ANSYS (2ª ed.). CRC Press. ISBN 978‑1466516892

Barbero, E. J. (2023). Finite Element Analysis of Composite Materials Using Abaqus (2ª ed.). CRC Press. ISBN 978‑0367621452

Bathe, K.-J. (1982). Finite Element Procedures in Engineering Analysis. Prentice Hall. ISBN 978‑0133173055

Reddy, J. N. (2021). An Introduction to Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis: With Applications to Heat Transfer, Fluid Mechanics, and Solid Mechanics (2ª ed.). Oxford University Press. ISBN 978‑0198871392

Reddy, J. N. (2003). Mechanics of Laminated Composite Plates and Shells: Theory and Analysis (2ª ed.). CRC Press. ISBN 978‑0849315923

Teaching methods

The course will introduce the fundamental concepts of CAD, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and composite material modeling, with particular focus on both the theoretical and practical aspects of structural design. Students will learn the basic principles of the mechanical behavior of materials, the numerical formulations of FEM analysis, and the main types of loads and boundary conditions.

The course will also present the most widely used software tools in professional and academic contexts for structural simulation. The teaching approach will be oriented toward the practical application of theoretical concepts, with the aim of providing students with the skills necessary to address real-world engineering and composite design challenges.

The learning experience will be complemented by hands-on computer exercises, during which students will apply what they have learned to case studies and targeted projects. These exercises will guide students through all phases of analysis—from geometric modeling, to the definition of material properties and mesh generation, to the interpretation of results through post-processing.

Assessment methods

Final exam with practical test.

Teaching tools

Software UNIBO for teaching and simulation.

Office hours

See the website of Luca Piancastelli

See the website of Giacomo Mascitelli

See the website of Alessandro Seclì