CME4616

Finite element method (mechanical engineering)

Y C Lam and R H Grzebieta

4 points
* 22 lecture hours and 22 laboratory hours
* First semester
* Clayton
* Prerequisites: CIV3223 and MEC2409
* Prohibitions: CME4617

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 emphasised.

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 the 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%
* Assignments: 40%

Prescribed texts

Cook R D and others Concepts and applications of finite element analysis Wiley, 1989

Recommended texts

Desai C S Elementary finite element method Prentice-Hall, 1979
G + D Computing STRAND 6 user manual 1991
Reddy J N An introduction to the finite element method McGraw-Hill, 1984
Stasa F L Applied finite element analysis for engineers HRW, 1985