LFU:online

Upon successful completion of the course (VL+UE) students will be able to
use a commercial finite element software for the solution of problems of
linear elasticity.

Powerful computers enable an in-depth analysis of complex problems in structural engineering. State of the art numerical methods, like the finite element method (FEM), are able to provide approximate solutions for many civil and mechanical engineering problems. In contrast to analytical approaches, as they were introduced in the basic courses on strength of materials, the finite element method is capable of dealing with complex geometries, complex boundary conditions as well as complex material properties. This major advantage of numerical methods is the cause for a widespread use of finite element software in engineering companies. In order to be able to assess the quality and accuracy of finite element solutions, a profound knowledge of its theoretical background is mandatory. It is the objective of this course to give an introduction to the displacement formulation of the finite element method and its application to problems of linear elasticity. Topics covered include

• the governing equations of the finite element method,
• the structure of finite element codes,
• continuum elements for three dimensional applications,
• simplifications for rotational symmetry and plane stress/plane strain,
• isoparametric formulations and numerical element integration,
• finite elements for nearly incompressible materials,
• finite elements for beams, plates and shells,
• convergence properties, stress smoothing/recovery and error estimation,
• examples of use.

Lecture, assessment is based on a single examination at the end of the course.

Oral examination. Application (secretariat) is compulsory!

Will be discussed in the first lesson.