Lecture 1
Lecture 1
Methods 2
Prof.Dr. Ahmet ERKLİĞ
Introduction
The finite element method (FEM), or finite element analysis (FEA), is
based on the idea of building a complicated object with simple blocks,
or, dividing a complicated object into smaller and manageable pieces.
Why FEA?
Finite Element Applications in Engineering
The FEM can be applied in solving the mathematical models of many
engineering problems, from stress analysis of truss and frame
structures or complicated machines, to dynamic responses of
automobiles, trains, or airplanes under different mechanical, thermal,
or electromagnetic loading.
Examples of FEA using ANSYS Workbench
(a) wind load simulation of an offshore
platform
(b) modal response of a steel frame building
with concrete slab floors
(c) underhood flow and thermal management
(d) electric field pattern of antenna mounted
on helicopter
A Brief History of FEA
• The foundation of the FEM was first developed by Courant in the early 1940s.
• The stiffness method, a prelude of the FEM, was developed by Turner, Clough
et al., in 1956.
• The name “finite element” was coined by Clough in 1960.
• Computer implementation of FEM programs emerged during the early 1970s.
• 1980s—Microcomputers, development of pre- and postprocessors (GUI)
• 1990s—Analysis of large structural systems, nonlinear, and dynamic problems
• 2000s—Analysis of multiphysics and multiscale problems
A General Procedure for FEA
To conduct an FEA, the following procedure is required in general:
• Divide the CAD/geometric model into pieces to create a “mesh” (a
collection of elements with nodes).
• Describe the behavior of the physical quantities on each element.
• Connect (assemble) the elements at the nodes to form an approximate
system of equations for the entire model.
• Apply loads and boundary conditions (e.g., to prevent the model from
moving).
• Solve the system of equations involving unknown quantities at the nodes
(e.g., the displacements).
• Calculate the desired quantities (e.g., strains and stresses) at elements or
nodes.
In commercial FEA software, this procedure is typically rearranged into
the following phases:
• Preprocessing (build FEM models, define element properties, and
apply loads and constraints)
• FEA solver (assemble and solve the FEM system of equations,
calculate element results)
• Postprocessing (sort and display the results)
An Example in FEA: Spring System
at node 2,
and, at node 3,
An Alternative Way of Assembling the Whole
Stiffness Matrix
“Enlarging” the stiffness matrices for elements 1 and 2, we have
However
The potential of the external forces is
Boundary and Load Conditions
Assuming that node 1 is fixed, and same force P is applied at node 2
and node 3, that is
u1 = 0 and F2 = F3 = P
we have from
which reduces
And F1 = −k1u2
Unknowns are
Find:
a. The global stiffness matrix
b. Displacements of nodes 2 and 3
c. The reaction forces at nodes 1 and 4
d. The force in the spring 2
Overview of ANSYS Workbench
ANSYS Workbench is a simulation platform that enables users to model
and solve a wide range of engineering problems using the FEA. It
provides access to the ANSYS family of design and analysis modules in
an integrated simulation environment.