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FEM Assignment Extended

The document discusses key concepts in Finite Element Analysis (FEA), including the importance of the Jacobian matrix for coordinate transformation, the advantages of using axisymmetric elements, and the differences between higher and lower order elements. It also explains serendipity elements, sub-parametric and super-parametric elements, and provides derivations for the Jacobian matrix of a 4-noded quadrilateral element and shape functions for a Linear Strain Triangle (LST) element. Overall, it highlights the significance of these elements and concepts in achieving accurate and efficient FEA modeling.

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17 views3 pages

FEM Assignment Extended

The document discusses key concepts in Finite Element Analysis (FEA), including the importance of the Jacobian matrix for coordinate transformation, the advantages of using axisymmetric elements, and the differences between higher and lower order elements. It also explains serendipity elements, sub-parametric and super-parametric elements, and provides derivations for the Jacobian matrix of a 4-noded quadrilateral element and shape functions for a Linear Strain Triangle (LST) element. Overall, it highlights the significance of these elements and concepts in achieving accurate and efficient FEA modeling.

Uploaded by

edgess916
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Finite Element Method Assignment Answers (Extended Version)

1. What is the Need for the Jacobian Matrix in Finite Element Analysis?

In Finite Element Analysis (FEA), the Jacobian matrix is essential for mapping between local and

global coordinate systems. It allows the transformation of shape function derivatives and integral

evaluations from natural (xi, eta) to global (x, y) coordinates. The Jacobian matrix for a 2D

transformation is:

J = | dx/dxi dy/dxi |

| dx/deta dy/deta |

It ensures accurate computation of physical quantities like strain and stress, validates mesh quality,

and is critical in isoparametric formulation.

2. What is the Advantage of Using Axisymmetric Elements?

Axisymmetric elements simplify 3D problems with rotational symmetry into 2D models. Advantages

include:

- Reduced computational cost and memory use.

- Simplified geometry and boundary conditions.

- Accurate analysis of radial and axial stresses in structures like pressure vessels and pipes.

3. Differences Between Higher Order and Lower Order Elements

| Feature | Lower Order | Higher Order |

|--------|-------------|--------------|

| Shape Functions | Linear | Quadratic or higher |

| Accuracy | Lower | Higher |

| Nodes | Corner nodes | Corner and mid-side nodes |


| Use Case | Simple geometry | Curved and complex geometry |

Higher order elements give better accuracy with fewer elements but are computationally expensive.

4. What is a Serendipity Element?

A serendipity element uses mid-side nodes without internal nodes to achieve quadratic interpolation.

An 8-node quadrilateral is a typical serendipity element, offering reduced computational cost while

maintaining higher accuracy than linear elements.

5. What are Sub-Parametric and Super-Parametric Elements?

- Sub-Parametric: Geometry < Field interpolation (less accurate)

- Isoparametric: Geometry = Field interpolation (most common)

- Super-Parametric: Geometry > Field interpolation (used for curved geometries)

Choice affects element quality and analysis accuracy.

6. Derivation of Jacobian Matrix for a 4-Noded Quadrilateral Element

Using isoparametric mapping with 4 shape functions N1 to N4 in natural coordinates (xi, eta), the

Jacobian matrix is derived by computing the partial derivatives of x and y with respect to xi and eta

using nodal coordinates.

7. Derivation of Shape Functions for LST Element

LST (Linear Strain Triangle) is a 6-node element. Shape functions in terms of area coordinates (L1,

L2, L3) are:

N1 = L1(2L1 - 1), N2 = L2(2L2 - 1), N3 = L3(2L3 - 1)

N4 = 4L1L2, N5 = 4L2L3, N6 = 4L3L1


These provide quadratic interpolation for accurate modeling of stress concentrations.

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