Structural mechanics:
multiaxial strains and stresses, principal stresses
dynamics: natural frequency, damping and resonance for simple systems
FEM theory:
discretization, interpolation functions, elements, nodes and degrees of freedom
internal and external work, virtual work
assembling, stiffness matrix
derivation of 2D beam element and 4-node plane element
description of the properties of plate, shell and 3D solid elements
FEM modeling:
choice of elements, boundary and support conditions
modeling of loads and details
modeling of concrete slabs
modelling of bridges
The course will treat both theoretical and more applied FEM modeling aspects. The course also provides the necessary knowledge above the beam theory in structural mechanics. An important goal of the course is to teach students to use a commercial FEM program by analyzing practical problems.
After completing the course the students shall be able to
- explain the basic theory behind the finite element method.
- derive 2D beam element and 4-node plane element.
- describe plate, shell and solid elements.
- use the finite element method to analyse real structures.
- use a commercial FE program.
- explain in which cases a simple dynamic analysis is needed, and the principles behind such analysis.
