Identify a real$-$life example of a failed component to analyze. You may consider objects in your daily life or hobbies for something that you find interesting. Conduct a complete stress analysis on your part. Items to consider include, but are not limited to$,$ the following:

$-$ Draw a free$-$body diagram and estimate dimensions and the usual expected loads

$-$ Calculate the stresses present in the system

$-$ Estimate material properties and then justify a choice of failure model

$-$ Solve for a theoretical safety factor based on your material behavior

$-($Optional$)$ Set up an FEA simulation to validate your results; this may be extra challenging if you have selected a material with anisotropic properties.

Finally, reflect on the process and your results. Items to consider include, but are not limited to$,$ the following:

$-$ How did this part specifically fail? Does it match with the predicted failure modes in your analysis?

$-$ Have you had a similar item or system in your life fail before? What were the consequences?

$-$ Does your model's safety factor allow for extreme or overload use cases?

$-$ Is your calculated safety factor reasonable based on how safety critical your application is$?$

$-$ Evaluate the overall design of the component: is there anything you would change about the geometry, material selection, or operating conditions to improve its reliability?