Program Overview

Course Overview

The course SD2411, Lightweight Structures and FEM, is an 8.0 credit course that covers the foundations of structural mechanics, analysis of thin-walled stiffened shells, plates, stability theory, and introduction to finite element methods.

Information per Course Offering

The course is offered in the autumn semester, with specific information available for the autumn 2026 start. The course location is KTH Campus, and the duration is from August 24, 2026, to January 11, 2027. The pace of study is 25%, and the application code is 11254. The form of study is normal daytime, and the language of instruction is English.

Target Group

The course is open to students in the following programs:

• CDEPR
• CMAST
• CMATD
• CFATE
• CTFYS (year 3)
• TAEEM
• TFORM
• TMRSM
• TTEMM
• TMEGM
• TIPUM
• TIPDM

Course Contents

The course covers analysis of structural elements and design methods for lightweight structures, introduction to the finite element method, bending, shear, torsion, and warping of open and closed thin-walled beams, with and without stiffeners. It also covers Kirchhoff plate theory and local and global instability of beams and thin plates.

Intended Learning Outcomes

After completing the course, students should be able to:

• Explain the function and application of different structural elements in lightweight structures
• Choose an appropriate lightweight structural element with respect to functionality and weight
• Analyze and design thin-walled beams and stiffened shells with respect to strength, stiffness, and structural stability
• Work with concepts from basic courses in solid mechanics
• Describe the principles of finite element codes and use them for analysis of basic structural elements
• Write a small finite element code in MatLab and use it to analyze beam problems
• Explain discrepancies in results from different analytical methods

Literature and Preparations

The specific prerequisites for the course include calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, solid mechanics, strength of materials, and basic computer programming skills. Some previous experience of FEM and Matlab programming is also beneficial but not formally required. The language requirement is English B/English 6.

Literature

Information about course literature can be found in the course memo for the course offering or in the course room in Canvas.

Examination and Completion

The grading scale for the course is A, B, C, D, E, FX, F. The examination consists of:

• LAB2 - Laboratory Work, 2.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
• TEN1 - Examination, 4.0 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
• LAB1 - Laboratory Work, 2.0 credits, grading scale: P, F

Other Requirements for Final Grade

The final grade requires a written exam (TEN1; 4 credits) and computer assignments (ÖVN1 and ÖVN2; 2+2 credits).

Examiner

The examiner for the course is Stefan Hallström.

Ethical Approach

All members of a group are responsible for the group's work. In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used. In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.

Further Information

The course is offered by SCI/Aeronautical and Vehicle Engineering, and it is part of the second cycle of education. Registered students can find further information about the implementation of the course in the course room in Canvas.