Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives To gain an appreciation and understanding of the theoretical basis and application of the finite element method for linear elastic problems in static stress analysis. The application of the finite element method for the solution of engineering problems will be emphasized.
Synopsis FEM as an aid to engineering analysis; its relationship to other methods; types of elements, their associated degrees of freedom, and the process of discretisation; element formulation for a ring and area element; shape functions; Gaussian integration; assembly of global stiffness matrix and connectivity; element compatibility; nodal and frontal equation solvers; modelling techniques; non-standard boundary conditions; multipoint constraints; sub-structuring; introduction to dynamics, buckling, steady-state heat transfer and flow through porous media analyses; introduction to general purpose commercial finite element programs.
Assessment Examination: (2 hours) 60% + Practical work: 40%