Workshop Overview:
The "Finite Elements Basics & Refined Bridge Structural Analysis" workshop covers fundamentals of finite element analysis required for structural/bridge engineers for modeling and analyzing complex structures and interpreting the analysis results. This workshop will be conducted in a hands-on format. Every participant will be assigned a workstation and will generate complex bridge models, analyze under the AASHTO specified loads, and interpret the results following step-by-step directions given by the instructor. SAP2000 software will be used for the workshop. The knowledge and skills developed through this exceptional two-day workshop will help participants develop complex FE bridge models, analyze, and interpret the results using any other comparable software.

Cost & Registration
The registration fee for this two-day workshop is $780, which includes computer lab fees, workshop materials, lunch and refreshments. Class size is limited; please register early. To register, call Michigan’s Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP) at 906-487-2102.

Due to commitments to the instructors and facility, the following cancellation policy applies:

• Cancellations on or before 1/29/10: Full refund.
• Cancellations between 1/30/10 - 2/12/10: $60 administration fee.
• Cancellations between 2/13/10 - 2/22/10: 50% refund, unless the seat can be filled.
• Cancellations on or after 2/23/10: No refund; substitutions will be accepted. Please notify Michigan LTAP if an alternate participant will attend.

Lodging:
Participants are responsible for their own lodging expenses. A block of rooms has been set aside at the Staybridge Suites - Kalamazoo at the rate of $100 per room. To reserve a room at this rate, call the Staybridge Suites at (269) 372-8000, and mention "Civil and Construction Engineering Department at Western Michigan University."

Instructor Biographies:
Haluk Aktan, Ph.D., PE
Haluk is a Professor in Civil/Structural Engineering and the chairman of Civil and Construction Engineering Department at Western Michigan University. Haluk has been an educator for more than 25 years and an expert in finite element analysis, structural dynamics, structural analysis, and bridge engineering. He has been the Principal Investigator on Michigan DOT funded projects investigating bridge structural system design and performance using advanced finite element modeling and analysis. He has served as an instructor for workshops and seminars on several structural engineering topics. He has been a consultant to private and public agencies dealing with failure investigation by advanced finite element modeling and analysis of reinforced concrete and steel structural systems.

Upul Attanayake, Ph.D.
Upul is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil & Construction Engineering at Western Michigan University. Currently, Upul is teaching graduate courses on Advanced Structural Analysis and Finite Element Applications at Western Michigan University. Upul is the finite element expert at the Center for Advanced Vehicle Design and Simulation (CAViDS) at Western Michigan University. His responsibilities include developing finite element models of semi-trailers and performing reliability and duty-cycle performance analysis of the vehicle/components. Upul has conducted several short courses on structural analysis using SAP 2000 and finite element model development, analysis, and results interpretation of complex structures using ABAQUS (general purpose finite element analysis program) and HyperMesh (finite element Pre- and Post processor). He has worked on Michigan DOT sponsored research projects evaluating bridge structural system performance using advance finite element modeling and analysis.

Flyer:
For more information please view the accompanying flyer.
Click here for a detailed agenda.