23-06-2012, 05:54 PM
Finite Element Methods OR Finite Element Analysis
Introduction to finite element method.ppt (Size: 3.13 MB / Downloads: 42)
Finite Element Method
Discrete elements approximating a continuum
Used when the geometry is too complex for an analytical solution
Continuum is divided into a finite number of elements
Each element represents a portion of the structure
Compatibility must be maintained at inter-element boundaries
Equations are generated to represent the system and a numerical solution is determined
Accuracy is largely dependent on mesh size
Numerical Solutions…
an array of gridpoints
write difference equations between points
Point wise approximation
an array of small, interconnected subregions
system is an assemblage of finite elements
piecewise approximation
General-Purpose Programs
Products: ANSYS, ADINA, SAP, EASE, I-DEAS, Unigraphics
Modular Construction:
Pre-processor: definition of geometry, materials, loading, boundary conditions.
Processor: construction and solution of mathematical model.
Post-processor: display of predicted displacements and stresses.
Between steps 1 and 2, the program will access a library of elements to generate mathematical models for the elements and applied loadings.