Introduction to the Finite Element Method Theory, Programming and Applications [Hardcover]

This text presents an introduction to the finite element method including theory, coding, and applications. The theory is presented without recourse to any specific discipline, and the applications span a broad range of engineering problems. The codes are written in MATLAB script in such a way that they are easily translated to other computer languages such as FORTRAN. All codes given in the text are available for downloading from the text's Web page, along with data files for running the test problems shown in the text. All codes can be run on the student version of MATLAB (not included).1. Introduction.

2. Calculus of Variations.

3. A Finite Element Program.

4. Linear Second Order Ordinary Differential Equations.

5. A Finite Element Function for Two Dimensions.

6. Poisson’s Equation -- FEM Approximation.

7. Poisson’s Equation -- Applications.

8. Higher-Order Elements.

9. A FEM Program for Two-Dimensional Boundary Value Problems.

10. Analysis of Transient Behavior.

11. Elasticity.

12. Higher-Order Equations.

Appendix A. Equation Solvers and Compact Storage.

Appendix B. The Shape Function Array.

Appendix C. Gaussian Quadrature.

Appendix D. Auxiliary Codes.

Erik G. Thompson is the author of Introduction to the Finite Element Method: Theory, Programming and Applications, published by Wiley.The right balance of theory, programming, and applications

Erik Thompson presents the theory, applications, and programming skills you'll need to understand the finite element method and use it to solve problems in engineering analysis and design. Offering concise, highly practical coverage, this introductory text presents complete finite elementln