A hierarchical flux-based finite element method is developed for both a one and two dimensional thermal structural analyses. Derivation of the finite element equations is presented. The resulting finite element matrices associated with the flux based formulation are evaluated in a closed form. The hierarchical finite elements include additional degrees of freedom in the approximation of the element variable distributions by the use of nodeless variables. The nodeless variables offer increased solution accuracy without the need for defining actual nodes and rediscretizing the finite element model. Thermal and structural responses are obtained from a conventional linear finite element method and exact solutions. Results show that the hierarchical flux-based method can provide improved thermal and structural solution accuracy with fewer elements when compared to results for the conventional linear element method. Polesky, Sandra P. Langley Research Center APPLICATIONS OF MATHEMATICS; FINITE ELEMENT METHOD; STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS; THERMAL ANALYSIS; TWO DIMENSIONAL MODELS; ALGORITHMS; JACOBI MATRIX METHOD; MATHEMATICAL MODELS; TEMPERATURE GRADIENTS; TRANSIENT RESPONSE...

This introductory text presents the applications of the finite element method to the analysis of conduction and convection problems. The book is divided into seven chapters which include basic ideas, application of these ideas to relevant problems, and development of solutions. Important concepts are illustrated with examples. Computer problems are also included to facilitate the types of solutions discussed.

Finite element analysis is a basic foundational topic that all engineering majors need to understand in order for them to be productive engineering analysts for a variety of industries. This book provides an introductory treatment of finite element analysis with an overview of the various fundamental concepts and applications. It introduces the basic concepts of the finite element method and examples of analysis using systematic methodologies based on ANSYS software. Finite element concepts involving one-dimensional problems are discussed in detail so the reader can thoroughly comprehend the concepts and progressively build upon those problems to aid in analyzing two-dimensional and three-dimensional problems. Moreover, the analysis processes are listed step-by-step for easy implementation, and an overview of two dimensional and three-dimensional concepts and problems is also provided. In addition, multiphysics problems involving coupled analysis examples are presented to further illustrate the broad applicability of the finite element method for a variety of engineering disciplines. The book is primarily targeted toward undergraduate students majoring in civil, biomedical, mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering and any other fields involving aspects of engineering analysis.

When using numerical simulation to make a decision, how can its reliability be determined? What are the common pitfalls and mistakes when assessing the trustworthiness of computed information, and how can they be avoided? Whenever numerical simulation is employed in connection with engineering decision-making, there is an implied expectation of reliability: one cannot base decisions on computed information without believing that information is reliable enough to support those decisions. Using mathematical models to show the reliability of computer-generated information is an essential part of any modelling effort. Giving users of finite element analysis (FEA) software an introduction to verification and validation procedures, this book thoroughly covers the fundamentals of assuring reliability in numerical simulation. The renowned authors systematically guide readers through the basic theory and algorithmic structure of the finite element method, using helpful examples and exercises throughout. Delivers the tools needed to have a working knowledge of the finite element method Illustrates the concepts and procedures of verification and validation Explains the process of conceptualization supported by virtual experimentation Describes the convergence characteristics of the h-, p- and hp-methods Covers the hierarchic view of mathematical models and finite element spaces Uses examples and exercises which illustrate the techniques and procedures of quality assurance Ideal for mechanical and structural engineering students, practicing engineers and applied mathematicians Includes parameter-controlled examples of solved problems in a companion website (www.wiley.com/go/szabo)

This much-anticipated second edition introduces the fundamentals of the finite element method featuring clear-cut examples and an applications-oriented approach. Using the transport equation for heat transfer as the foundation for the governing equations, this new edition demonstrates the versatility of the method for a wide range of applications, including structural analysis and fluid flow. Much attention is given to the development of the discrete set of algebraic equations, beginning with simple one-dimensional problems that can be solved by inspection, continuing to two- and three-dimensional elements, and ending with three chapters describing applications. The increased number of example problems per chapter helps build an understanding of the method to define and organize required initial and boundary condition data for specific problems. In addition to exercises that can be worked out manually, this new edition refers to user-friendly computer codes for solving one-, two-, and three-dimensional problems. Among the first FEM textbooks to include finite element software, the book contains a website with access to an even more comprehensive list of finite element software written in FEMLAB, MAPLE, MathCad, MATLAB, FORTRAN, C++, and JAVA - the most popular programming languages. This textbook is valuable for senior level undergraduates in mechanical, aeronautical, electrical, chemical, and civil engineering. Useful for short courses and home-study learning, the book can also serve as an introduction for first-year graduate students new to finite element coursework and as a refresher for industry professionals. The book is a perfect lead-in to Intermediate Finite Element Method: Fluid Flow and Heat and Transfer Applications (Taylor & Francis, 1999, Hb 1560323094).