Basic Finite Element Analysis
This course offers excellent guidance on how to assess and plan the task of carrying out structural analysis using FEA.
Description
Finite Element Analysis is a powerful, widely used and universally accepted technique. However, for those new to FEA there is a steep learning curve to overcome, with a bewildering array of:
- element types
- solution types
- meshing methods
- loading and constraint methods
- pre-post processing options
This is before we get down to the engineering physics behind the problem, with associated classic traps and errors. What is needed is guidance via a thorough but practical assessment of the method and how to use it in the real world.
Session 1
- History and background
- FEA Process
- Element Stiffness Matrices
- Avoiding Free Motion
- Spreadsheet Bar Solver
- Degrees of Freedom
- Homework
Session 2
- Homework review
- Displacement shape functions
- Element Types
- A sanity check on FEA
- A simple case study
- Beam structure example
- Homework
Session 3
- Homework review
- Controlling DOF
- Special elements and methods
- Element stress inaccuracies
- Convergence checking
- Homework
Session 4
- Homework Review
- Local Stress Raisers
- Real World Boundary Conditions
- Real World Loading
- Summary of FEA Model Checks
- Checks prior to analysis
- Pre Processor and Meshing Checks
- Auxiliary Analysis Checks
- Solver Checks
- Post Processor Checks
- Reporting
- Homework
Session 5
- Making Life Simpler
- Cylinder Example
- Understanding the Objective of an FEA analysis
- Looking Critically at CAD Geometry
- Why Not Use 20 Million Elements
- Homework
Session 6
- Free Body Diagrams
- Types of stresses
- Assessing Stresses
- Checking Results
- Load Paths
- Other Solution Types
- Conclusions
- Homework