Study Guide

Objective

On completion of the course, the student will be familiar with the basics of the finite element method, and able to perform linear static analyses using commercial finite element software.

Content

1. Maxrix calculus
2. Introduction to the finite element method
3. Spring element
4. Bar element
5. Beam element
6. Solving for displacements, computing reaction forces and element forces
7. Use of finite element software

Evaluation scale

0-5

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

The student knows the basics of matrix algebra.
The student can discretize a truss or a frame structure, form the element stiffness matrices, assemble the structure’s stiffness matrix, and solve for the unknown nodal displacements.
The student can compute the reactions and element internal forces and draw internal force diagrams.
The student can build and use simple FE software.
The student can run linear static analyses using FE software and an example.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

The student can discretize a truss or a frame structure, can form the element stiffness matrices, assemble the structure’s stiffness matrix, and solve for the unknown nodal displacements.
The student can compute the reactions and element internal forces and draw internal force diagrams.
The student can build and use simple FE software.
The student can run linear static analyses using commercial FE software.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

The student knows the principles of the finite element method.
The student can discretize a truss or a frame structure, can form the element stiffness matrices, assemble the structure’s stiffness matrix, and solve for the unknown nodal displacements.
The student can compute the reactions and element internal forces and draw internal force diagrams.
The student can build simple FE software, understands how it works and can interpret the results.
The student can independently run linear static analyses using commercial FE software, interpret the results and assess their validity.

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

The student knows the basics of matrix algebra.
The student can discretize a truss or a frame structure, form the element stiffness matrices, assemble the structure’s stiffness matrix, and solve for the unknown nodal displacements.
The student can compute the reactions and element internal forces and draw internal force diagrams.
The student can build and use simple FE software.
The student can run linear static analyses using FE software and an example.

Prerequisites

Machine parts design