CE 551 Finite Element Analysis

Dr. James N. Craddock ENGR B-26 craddock@ce.siu.sdu 453-7808

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CE 551 - Introduction

Introduction to FEM
- including a brief history of the method

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CE 551 - Introduction

The Finite Element Method

History Brief Description General Steps Advantages Computer Programs

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CE 551 - Introduction

Definition
The finite element method is a numerical method for solving problems of engineering and mathematical physics. Useful for problems with complicated geometries, loadings, and material properties where analytical solutions can not be obtained.
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Discretizations
Model body by dividing it into an equivalent system of smaller bodies or units (finite elements) interconnected at points common to two or more elements (nodes or nodal points) and/or boundary lines and/or surfaces.

3/2/2014

CE 551 - Introduction

3/2/2014

CE 551 - Introduction

3/2/2014

CE 551 - Introduction

Brief History
Hrennikoff [1941] - Lattice of 1D bars to McHenry [1943] - Model 3D solids Courant [1943] - Variational form Levy [1947, 1953] - Flexibility & Stiffness Argryis and Kelsey [1954] - Energy Prin. for Matrix Methods Turner, Clough, Martin and Topp [1956] 2D elements Clough [1960] - Term Finite Elements
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History
Grew out of aerospace industry. Post-WW II jets, missiles, space flight Need for light weight structures Required accurate stress analysis Paralleled growth of computers

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CE 551 - Introduction

Applications
Structural/Stress Analysis Fluid Flow Heat Transfer Electro-Magnetic Fields Soil Mechanics Acoustics

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Feature
Obtain a set of algebraic equations to solve for unknown nodal quantity (displacement). Secondary quantities (stresses and strains) are expressed in terms of nodal values of primary quantity

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Advantages
Irregular Boundaries General Loads Different Materials Boundary Conditions Variable Element Size Easy Modification Dynamics Nonlinear Problems (Geometric or Material)
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Steps in Process
Discretize and Select Element Type Select a Displacement Function Define Strain/Displacement and Stress/Strain Relationships Derive Element Stiffness Matrix & Eqs. Assemble Equations and Introduce B.C.s Solve for the Unknown Degrees of Freedom Solve for Element Stresses and Strains Interpret the Results
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Computer Programs
Small Special Purpose Programs

Truss Frame Plane Stress Heat Transfer

Large General Purpose Program (Commercial)

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Programs
ALGOR ANSYS COSMOS/M STARDYNE IMAGES-3D MSC/NASTRAN SAP90 ADINA NISA
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Advantages of General Purpose Programs

Easy input - preprocessor. Solves many types of problems Modular design - fluids, dynamics, heat, etc. Can run on PCs now. Relatively low cost.
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Disadvantages of General Purpose Programs

High development costs. Less efficient than smaller programs, Often proprietary. User access to code limited.

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