The purpose of this primer is to provide the basics of the Finite Element Method, primarily illustrated through a classical model problem, linearized elasticity. The topics covered are: (1) Weighted residual methods and Galerkin approximations, (2) A model problem for one-dimensional linear elastostatics, (3) Weak formulations in one dimension, (4) Minimum principles in one dimension, (5) Error estimation in one dimension, (5) Construction of Finite Element basis functions in one dimension, (6) Gaussian Quadrature, (7) Iterative solvers and element by element data structures, (8) A model problem for three-dimensional linear elastostatics, (9) Weak formulations in three dimensions, (10) Basic rules for element construction in three-dimensions, (11) Assembly of the system and solution schemes, (12) Assembly of the system and solution schemes, (13) An introduction to time-dependent problems and (14) A brief introduction to rapid computation based on domain decomposition and basic parallel processing.

Annotation This book fills a gap within the finite element literature by addressing the challenges and developments in multidiscipli-nary analysis. Current developments include disciplines of structural mechanics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, controls engineering and propulsion technology, and their interaction as encountered in many practical problems in aeronautical, aerospace, and mechanical engineering, among others. These topics are reflected in the 15 chapter titles of the book. Numerical problems are provided to illustrate the applicability of the techniques. Exercises may be solved either manually or by using suitable computer software. A version of the multidisciplinary analysis program STARS is available from the author. As a textbook, the book is useful at the senior undergraduate or graduate level. The practicing engineer will find it invaluable for solving full-scale practical problems.

Designed for a one-semester course in Finite Element Method, this compact and well-organized text presents FEM as a tool to find approximate solutions to differential equations. This provides the student a better perspective on the technique and its wide range of applications. This approach reflects the current trend as the present-day applications range from structures to biomechanics to electromagnetics, unlike in conventional texts that view FEM primarily as an extension of matrix methods of structural analysis. After an introduction and a review of mathematical preliminaries, the book gives a detailed discussion on FEM as a technique for solving differential equations and variational formulation of FEM. This is followed by a lucid presentation of one-dimensional and two-dimensional finite elements and finite element formulation for dynamics. The book concludes with some case studies that focus on industrial problems and Appendices that include mini-project topics based on near-real-life problems. Postgraduate/Senior undergraduate students of civil, mechanical and aeronautical engineering will find this text extremely useful; it will also appeal to the practising engineers and the teaching community.

The primary goal of Introduction to Finite Element Analysis Using SOLIDWORKS Simulation 2015 is to introduce the aspects of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) that are important to engineers and designers. Theoretical aspects of FEA are also introduced as they are needed to help better understand the operation. The primary emphasis of the text is placed on the practical concepts and procedures needed to use SOLIDWORKS Simulation in performing Linear Static Stress Analysis and basic Modal Analysis. This text covers SOLIDWORKS Simulation and the lessons proceed in a pedagogical fashion to guide you from constructing basic truss elements to generating three-dimensional solid elements from solid models. This text takes a hands-on, exercise-intensive approach to all the important FEA techniques and concepts. This textbook contains a series of fourteen tutorial style lessons designed to introduce beginning FEA users to SOLIDWORKS Simulation. The basic premise of this book is that the more designs you create using SOLIDWORKS Simulation, the better you learn the software. With this in mind, each lesson introduces a new set of commands and concepts, building on previous lessons.

Designed for students without in-depth mathematical training, this text includes a comprehensive presentation and analysis of algorithms of time-dependent phenomena plus beam, plate, and shell theories. Solution guide available upon request.