A First Course in the Finite Element Method [Hardcover]

Discover a simple, direct approach that highlights the basics you need within A FIRST COURSE IN THE FINITE ELEMENT METHOD, 6E. This unique book is written so both undergraduate and graduate students can easily comprehend the content without the usual prerequisites, such as structural analysis. The book is written primarily as a basic learning tool for students, like you, in civil and mechanical engineering who are primarily interested in stress analysis and heat transfer. The text offers ideal preparation for utilizing the finite element method as a tool to solve practical physical problems. It is extremely well presented for an introductory text&The author does an excellent job of getting to the underlying issues without confusing the reader with overwrought detail&The examples were very interesting and actually included advanced topics that many students would not be able to address based upon the presentation in other texts...Interesting examples that are simply explained that present complex topics. The presentation with regard to the example problems is the best I have seen in any textbook during 40+ years I have been teaching the finite element method&The textbook must be readable and at the appropriate level of sophistication for the students who will be using it. I find that this text does an excellent job of meeting both of these criteria. 1. INTRODUCTION. Brief History. Introduction to Matrix Notation. Role of the Computer. General Steps of the Finite Element Method. Applications of the Finite Element Method. Advantages of the Finite Element Method. Computer Programs for the Finite Element Method. 2. INTRODUCTION TO THE STIFFNESS (DISPLACEMENT) METHOD. Definition of the Stiffness Matrix. Derivation of the Stiffness Matrix for a Spring Element. Example of a Spring Assemblage. Assembling the Total Stiffness Matrix by Superposition (Direct Stiffness Method). Boundary Conditions. Potential Energy Approach to Derive Spring Element Equations. 3. DEVELOPMENT OF l-