Use of the Scilab Program in Solving Resistance of Materials Problems with the Fmincon Function

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.35819/tear.v13.n2.a7414

Abstract

he subject of Resistance of Materials is fundamental to the training of engineers, as it provides theoretical and practical knowledge about the behavior of materials under different types of loading. Traditionally, the teaching of this subject has focused on analytical approaches. However, the creation of pedagogical practices that stimulate the ability to analyze, solve problems, and interpret results is crucial. In this context, the aim of this article is to present a novel approach to solving problems in Resistance of Materials by employing structural optimization using the open-source software Scilab. Computer codes for the numerical solution of case studies are developed using the fmincon function. This function is a tool used to solve nonlinear programming optimization problems, where the objective is to minimize or maximize a function subject to both equality and inequality constraints. With the integration of computers into the classroom, students will have the opportunity to enhance their ability to comprehend and apply the theoretical knowledge acquired, which in turn improves the learning process. The application of the proposed methodology in the classroom can serve as a starting point for future research related to the potential of educational technologies in other engineering fields.

Keywords: Engineering Education. Structural Optimization. Fmincon.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

Author Biography

  • Luiz Antonio Farani de Souza, UTFPR

    Possui graduação em Engenharia Civil pela UEM (2000), Especialização em Engenharia civil - área Estruturas pela UFPR (2002), Mestrado em Métodos Numéricos em Engenharia pela UFPR (2005), Doutorado em Métodos Numéricos em Engenharia pela UFPR (2009) e Pós-Doutorado pelo Programa de Pós-Graduação em Matemática na UEM (2017). Foi professor da Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul - UFFS, Campus Cerro Largo, no curso de Engenharia Ambiental (2012-2014). Professor Associado 3 do Curso de Engenharia Civil, Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná - UTFPR, Campus Apucarana e professor permanente do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Engenharia Civil - PCV, Universidade Estadual de Maringá - UEM.

Published

2024-12-16

How to Cite

Use of the Scilab Program in Solving Resistance of Materials Problems with the Fmincon Function. #Tear: Journal of Education, Science and Technology, Canoas, v. 13, n. 2, 2024. DOI: 10.35819/tear.v13.n2.a7414. Disponível em: https://periodicos.ifrs.edu.br/index.php/tear/article/view/7414. Acesso em: 15 jun. 2026.