This book is intended as an essential study aid for the finite element method. Based on the free computer algebra system Maxima, the authors offer routines for symbolically or numerically solving problems in the context of plane truss and frame structures, allowing readers to check classical ‘hand calculations’ on the one hand and to understand the computer implementation of the method on the other. The mechanical theories focus on the classical one-dimensional structural elements, i.e. bars, Euler–Bernoulli and Timoshenko beams, and their combination to generalized beam elements. Focusing on one-dimensional elements reduces the complexity of the mathematical framework, and the resulting matrix equations can be displayed with all components and not merely in the form of a symbolic representation. In addition, the use of a computer algebra system and the incorporated functions, e.g. for equation solving, allows readers to focus more on the methodology of the finite element method and not on standard procedures.

This book is an outcome of academic cooperation between the Volgograd State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering in Russia, Stellenbosch University in South Africa and the Technische Universit„t Berlin in Germany. The authors performed coordinated and cooperative research on nonlinear structural analysis and on computer-supported civil engineering over a period of several years. Many of the innovative aspects of this book were invented and developed in the course of the research effort.

Textbook covers the fundamental theory of structural mechanics and the modelling and analysis of frame and truss structures Deals with modelling and analysis of trusses and frames using a systematic matrix formulated displacement method with the language and flexibility of the finite element method Element matrices are established from analytical solutions to the differential equations Provides a strong toolbox with elements and algorithms for computational modelling and numerical exploration of truss and frame structures Discusses the concept of stiffness as a qualitative tool to explain structural behaviour Includes numerous exercises, for some of which the computer software CALFEM is used. In order to support the learning process CALFEM gives the user full overview of the matrices and algorithms used in a finite element analysis

Introduces the basic concepts of FEM in an easy-to-use format so that students and professionals can use the method efficiently and interpret results properly Finite element method (FEM) is a powerful tool for solving engineering problems both in solid structural mechanics and fluid mechanics. This book presents all of the theoretical aspects of FEM that students of engineering will need. It eliminates overlong math equations in favour of basic concepts, and reviews of the mathematics and mechanics of materials in order to illustrate the concepts of FEM. It introduces these concepts by including examples using six different commercial programs online. The all-new, second edition of Introduction to Finite Element Analysis and Design provides many more exercise problems than the first edition. It includes a significant amount of material in modelling issues by using several practical examples from engineering applications. The book features new coverage of buckling of beams and frames and extends heat transfer analyses from 1D (in the previous edition) to 2D. It also covers 3D solid element and its application, as well as 2D. Additionally, readers will find an increase in coverage of finite element analysis of dynamic problems. There is also a companion website with examples that are concurrent with the most recent version of the commercial programs. Offers elaborate explanations of basic finite element procedures Delivers clear explanations of the capabilities and limitations of finite element analysis Includes application examples and tutorials for commercial finite element software, such as MATLAB, ANSYS, ABAQUS and NASTRAN Provides numerous examples and exercise problems Comes with a complete solution manual and results of several engineering design projects Introduction to Finite Element Analysis and Design, 2nd Edition is an excellent text for junior and senior level undergraduate students and beginning graduate students in mechanical, civil, aerospace, biomedical engineering, industrial engineering and engineering mechanics.

Function minimization methods in structural analysis and optimum design are discussed. A computer program which implements the energy search method of nonlinear finite element analysis is presented. Several recent weight optimization methods based on finite element analysis are reviewed. Special characteristics of the finite element method relevant to automated design are identified. Some efficient approximate analysis methods for optimization applications are explored. Applications of some of these methods to plane frames and finite-deflection trusses are presented.