Finite Element Method and Applications in Mechanical Engineering

Starting with an introduction to different numerical techniques, then the three basic approaches of the finite element method (FEM) namely; the direct approach, the variational approach and the weighted residual approach, are presented. The direct approach is used in the analysis of simple discrete systems e.g. pipelines, electric circuits, and trusses. Then the weighed residual procedure issued in the analysis of continuous systems. Programming for finite elements is also covered and students are encouraged to design and develop their FEM software. Modeling and simulation using a software package is also covered.