Program Overview
Cranfield University's Composite Material Structures program equips participants with the knowledge and skills to design and analyze composite structures efficiently. Through a combination of lectures and hands-on laboratory sessions, the program covers topics such as mechanics of composite materials, stress analysis, and impact damage. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in aerospace, naval engineering, automotive, and other industries where composite materials are used.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Cranfield University's Composite Material Structures program
provides participants with the knowledge and skills to design and analyze composite material structures efficiently. The program focuses on the mechanics of composite materials used in various advanced engineering applications, including aerospace, naval, and automotive.
Program Objectives:
- Enhance participants' understanding of composite materials and design best practices.
- Provide a thorough understanding of stress analysis and strength prediction techniques for composite structures.
- Offer hands-on experience with analysis methods and procedures for real composite structural elements.
- Demonstrate the impact of fiber orientation and stacking sequence on composite structures.
- Introduce the fundamentals of impact damage and crashworthiness in composites.
Description:
The program uses a combination of lectures and hands-on laboratory sessions to foster in-depth understanding. Participants will also gain experience using design optimization tools for different composite structures. The program culminates with the development and validation of structural designs against analytical solutions.
Outline:
Content:
- Introduction to Composite Materials
- Analysis of an Individual Ply
- Macro-mechanics of a Laminate
- Fatigue and Damage Tolerance of Composite Structures
- Repair of Composite Structures
- Failure Analysis of Composite Structures
- Impact of Composite Structures
- Crashworthiness of Composite Structures
- Structural Stability of Composite Structures
- Finite Element Modelling of Composite Structures
- Practical FEM - ABAQUS
Structure:
The program runs for five days and includes lectures and hands-on laboratory sessions. Participants will receive a Certificate of Attendance upon completion.
Schedule:
A typical program schedule is available upon request. The schedule is subject to change.
Modules:
- Each module focuses on a specific aspect of composite material structures, providing in-depth knowledge and practical application skills.
- Modules are delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, and hands-on laboratory sessions.
- Module descriptions and objectives are provided upon request.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Continuous assessment through assignments and project work.
- Final written examination.
Assessment Criteria:
- Understanding of key concepts of composite material structures.
- Ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical design and analysis tasks.
- Effective communication of technical knowledge and results.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Interactive lectures with opportunities for student participation and discussion.
- Hands-on laboratory sessions where participants apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems.
- Group project work to develop research and presentation skills.
Faculty:
The program is delivered by experienced researchers and industry professionals with expertise in composite material structures.
Careers:
Career Paths:
- The program prepares graduates for careers in various sectors where composite materials are used, including:
- Aerospace
- Naval engineering
- Automotive
- Civil and Structural engineering
- Mechanical engineering
- Research
- Certification
- Design and technical management
Career Opportunities:
- Graduates are well-positioned for roles such as:
- Composites Engineer
- Design Engineer
- Stress Engineer
- Research Engineer
- Certification Engineer
Career Outcomes:
- The program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to make significant contributions to the development and use of composite materials in various industries.
- Graduates will have a strong understanding of the design, analysis, and manufacturing of composite structures.
Other:
Accommodation:
- The program offers exclusive accommodation packages at Mitchell Hall on campus.
- Rooms are en-suite and available on a half-board basis from Sunday to Friday.
Location:
- Cranfield University is located in Bedfordshire, close to the border with Buckinghamshire.
- The University is conveniently situated between junctions 13 and 14 of the M1.
- London Luton, Stansted, and Heathrow airports are easily accessible.