TCW 5004 FEM: Assignment

(Due date: 6 November 2014)

1. In your own words explain what the finite element method is, briefly describing the
general steps, advantages, disadvantages and applications of the method?

2. Derive the stiffness matrix for the system of linear springs shown below.

3. For the problem below:

(i) Calculate the global stiffness matrix before the application of the boundary conditions.
(ii) Calculate the reduced stiffness matrix after the application of the boundary conditions.

4. Using the principle of Minimum Potential Energy, formulate the global stiffness matrix for
the system shown below. Solve for the unknown displacements, forces and reactions.