You are on page 1of 27

CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 1 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

The National University of Singapore
Department of Civil Engineering


CE 4257 - LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS

Venue: Room E3-06-08

Course Lecturers:

a. Professor Quek Ser Tong
Room E1A-02-15
Email: cveqst@nus.edu.sg, Tel: 6516 2263.

b. Professor Koh Chan Ghee
Room E1A-05-06
Email: cvekohcg@nus.edu.sg, Tel: 6516 2163.

Teaching Assistant:

a. Ms Anastasia Santoso (first part of CE4257)
Room E1A-02-04, Email: anastasia_santoso@nus.edu.sg, Tel:
6516 4838.
Consultation from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. (before lecture starts)

Assessment:

- Marked Tutorial Assignments: 10% + 10%
- Project 1: 10%
- Project 2 (or Quiz): 10%
- Final exam: 60% on 24 Nov 10

Modular Credit 4
Workload 3-0-0-0-7
Prerequisites CE3155 or equivalent

Matlab cluster (last year)
E1-04-09, E1-04-10, E2-03-06, E2-03-07, E2-03-08, E2-03-09.
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 2 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

The objective of this module is to equip students with fundamentals of
finite element principles so as to enable them to understand the
behavior of various finite elements and to be able to select
appropriate elements to solve physical and engineering problems.

Upon completion of this course, student will be able to:
- analyse linear, axisymmetric and/or field problems using
appropriate finite elements
- engage in further studies on advanced finite element procedures


BROAD OUTLINE

1. Introduction
2. One-Dimensional Elements
3. Equations in Elastic Mechanics
4 Two-Dimensional Elements
5 Weighted Residual Methods
6 Three-Dimensional Stress Analysis
7 Field Problems
8 Special Topics (subject to change)


References
1. Grandin, H., Fundamentals of the Finite Element Method,
Macmillan Publishing Company, 1986.
2. Zienkiewicz, O.C. and Morgan, K., Finite Elements and
Approximation, John Wiley and Sons, 1983.
3. Cook, R.D., Finite Element Modelling for Stress Analysis, John
Wiley and Sons, 1995.
4. Weaver, W. And Johnston, P.R., Finite Elements for Structural
Analysis, Prentice-Hall, 1984.
5. Beer, G. And Watson, J.O., Introduction to Finite and Boundary
Element Methods for Engineers, John Wiley and Sons, 1992.
6. D.L. Logan, A First Course in the Finite Element Method, Third
Edition, Thomson Learning, 2001, TA347.F5L 64
7. J.N. Reddy, An Introduction to the Finite Element Method,
Second Edition, McGraw-Hill International Editions, Singapore.
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 3 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

1 INTRODUCTION

This module equips students with the fundamentals of finite element
principles to enable them to understand the behavior of various finite
elements and to be able to select appropriate elements to solve
physical and engineering problems. It covers weak formulation
element shape function, isoparametric concepts, 1-D, 2-D, 3-D and
axisymmetric elements, field problems, modelling, and practical
considerations of the finite element method.

In this introductory lecture, the motivation for and basic concept
behind the finite element method is presented using simple examples.
Despite this, key steps in the formulation and resulting equations
introduced are general and will be repeatedly encountered throughout
this course.

Analytical solutions are amenable only for certain simplified situations.
For the general case, numerical methods are often employed. Some
reasons for using numerical method over analytical approach include:
- the problem (e.g. structure) is complicated
- there are more than one kind of material within the structure
- the materials are non-homogenous and/or nonlinear
- the geometry of the structure is complex
- the boundary conditions are not simple
- the loading is not regular

In engineering, there are 3 approaches to solve problems:
- displacement-based (displacements are unknowns)
- force-based (stresses are the primary unknowns)
- mixed formulation (some displacements & stresses are unknowns)

We shall illustrate the first approach with a simple problem formulated
in 3 different ways. This is then extended to a 2D problem after
which a general discussion is given on the finite element method.
The objective of CE4257 and the course outline are presented. For
part 1 of this course, the proposed schedule of lectures, homework
and project assignments are also given.
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 4 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

1.1 Example Problem Structure with Spring or Rod or Truss
Elements



















How to find the displacement of the central rigid element and the
forces in the springs or rod elements?



Reference:

D.L. Logan, A First Course in the Finite Element Method,
Third Edition, Thomson Learning, 2001, TA347.F5L 64
Chapter 2 (Introduction to Stiffness Method)
Chapter 3 (Development of Truss Equations)
k
1
k
2
k
3
P

P

E
1
,A
1
,L
1
E
2
,A
2
,L
2
E
3
,A
3
,L
2
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 5 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

1.1.1 Spring (or Truss or Axial) Element








) (
) (
1 2 2
2 1 1
x x x
x x x
d d k f
d d k f
=
=




For truss element, L EA k / =
where E = Youngs modulus; A = cross-sectional area;
L = length of element

This is the force-displacement relationship.
f
1x
f
2x
1 2
d
2x
d
1x
k
|
|
.
|

\
|
(


=
|
|
.
|

\
|
x
x
x
x
d
d
k k
k k
f
f
2
1
2
1
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 6 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

1.1.2 Solution by Direct Equilibrium Approach

Use all of the following (most important set of steps in mechanics):
(1) Nodal equilibrium conditions
(2) Compatibility or continuity conditions
(3) Material property (or Force-displacement relationship)
(4) Boundary conditions
(5) Solve for unknown displacements
(6) Use the displacement solution to find the forces in the elements
using (3)








Free Body Diagram





















f
2x
(el 3)
f
4x
2
d
4x
k
3
3
d
2x
(el 3)
f
4x
F
4x
f
2x
(el

2)
2
3
d
3x
d
2x
(el 2)
k
2
f
3x
F
3x
f
1x
f
2x
(el 1)
1
d
2x
(el 1)
d
1x
k
1
2
f
2x
(el 1)
P
f
2x
(el

2)
f
2x
(el 3)
f
3x
f
1x
F
1x
2
k
1
k
3
P

k
2
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 7 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

(1) Nodal equilibrium conditions
At node 1:
x x
f F
1 1
=
At node 2: ) 3 ( ) 2 ( ) 1 (
2 2 2
el f el f el f P
x x x
+ + =
At node 3:
x x
f F
3 3
=
At node 4:
x x
f F
4 4
=

(2) Compatibility or continuity conditions
Displacements at node 2, d
2x
, for all 3 springs are the same.

(3) Material property (or Force-displacement relationship)
Using the relationship in Section 1.1.1 and substitute into the nodal
equilibrium equations, we have

x x x
d k d k F
2 1 1 1 1
=
x x x x x x
d k d k d k d k d k d k P
4 3 2 3 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 1
+ + + =
x x x
d k d k F
3 2 2 2 3
+ =
x x x
d k d k F
4 3 2 3 4
+ =

|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
(
(
(
(

+ +

=
|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
d
d
d
d
k k
k k
k k k k k k
k k
F
F
P
F
4
3
2
1
3 3
2 2
3 2 3 2 1 1
1 1
4
3
1
0 0
0 0
0 0


(4) Boundary conditions
0 , 0 , 0
4 3 1
= = =
x x x
d d d

(5) Solve for unknown displacements
By imposing the boundary conditions, we have
3 2 1
2
k k k
P
d
x
+ +
=

(6) Use the displacement solution to find the forces in the elements
using (3)

) /(
3 2 1 1 2 1 1
k k k P k d k F
x x
+ + = =
) /(
3 2 1 2 2 2 3
k k k P k d k F
x x
+ + = =
) /(
3 2 1 3 2 3 4
k k k P k d k F
x x
+ + = = Why negative sign?
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 8 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

1.1.3 Solution by Direct Stiffness Approach

Approach is based on proper superposition of individual element
stiffness matrices (such as the one in Section 1.1.1) making up a
structure.

(1) write element matrix for each element in the structure
(2) expand the matrix to accommodate all the degrees of freedom (i.e.
displacements at the node) of the structure
(3) assemble matrices in (2) to form a global stiffness matrix (actually
result of considering force equilibrium at each node)
(4) put in the boundary conditions (at each node, either the
displacement or the force is unknown but not both)
(5) solve for the unknowns, giving the displacements and the forces









(1) write element matrix for each element in the structure



(2) expand the matrix to accommodate all the degrees of freedom (i.e.
displacements at the node) of the structure

|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
(
(
(
(


=
|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
x
x
x
x
x
x
d
d
d
d
k k
k k
f
f
4
3
2
1
1 1
1 1
2
1
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0
0 0
0
0

|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
(
(
(
(


=
|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
x
x
x
x
x
x
d
d
d
d
k k
k k
f
f
4
3
2
1
2 2
2 2
3
2
0 0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0 0 0
0
0

|
|
.
|

\
|
(


=
|
|
.
|

\
|
x
x
x
x
d
d
k k
k k
f
f
2
1
1 1
1 1
2
1
2
1
4
3
|
|
.
|

\
|
(


=
|
|
.
|

\
|
x
x
x
x
d
d
k k
k k
f
f
3
2
2 2
2 2
3
2
|
|
.
|

\
|
(


=
|
|
.
|

\
|
x
x
x
x
d
d
k k
k k
f
f
4
2
3 3
3 3
4
2
k
1
k
2
k
3
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 9 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
(
(
(
(

=
|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
x
x
x
x
x
x
d
d
d
d
k k
k k
f
f
4
3
2
1
3 3
3 3
4
2
0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0
0 0 0 0
0
0



(3) assemble matrices in (2) to form a global stiffness matrix

|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
(
(
(
(

+ +

=
|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
d
d
d
d
k k
k k
k k k k k k
k k
F
F
P
F
4
3
2
1
3 3
2 2
3 2 3 2 1 1
1 1
4
3
1
0 0
0 0
0 0


The square matrix is known as the global stiffness matrix. It is the
total stiffness matrix of the whole structure with respect to the
degrees of freedom
x x x x
d d d d
4 3 2 1
, , ,


(4) put in the boundary conditions (at each node, either the
displacement or the force is unknown but not both)

|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
(
(
(
(

+ +

=
|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
0
0
0
0 0
0 0
0 0
2
3 3
2 2
3 2 3 2 1 1
1 1
4
3
1
x
x
x
x
d
k k
k k
k k k k k k
k k
F
F
P
F



(5) solve for the unknowns, giving the displacements and the forces

see Section 1.1.2


CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 10 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

1.1.4 Solution by Energy Approach

We can use the principle of minimum potential energy (applicable
only for elastic materials) or the principle of virtual work (applicable
for any material behaviour). Both are included in the general
category of variational methods. For problems where a variational
formulation is not clearly definable, methods of weighted residuals
(one of which is the Galerkin method) are often used.

The principle of minimum potential energy can be stated as follows:
Of all geometrically possible shapes that a body can assume, the true
one, corresponding to the satisfaction of stable equilibrium of the
body, is identified by a minimum value of the total potential energy.

The total potential energy t
p
can be expressed in terms of
displacements and for FE formulation, nodal displacements are most
convenient. Minimizing t
p
produces the equilibrium equations.

Total potential energy t
p
= internal strain energy U +
potential energy of external forces O

Strain energy U = capacity of internal forces (or stresses) to do work
through deformation (strains) in the structure

For a spring element with force displacement relationship given by F
= kx, the differential internal work or strain energy dU for a small
change in length is given by the internal force multiplied by the
change in displacement through which the force moves, i.e.

dU = F.dx = kx.dx

The total strain energy is
Fx kx dx kx U
x
2
1 2
2
1
0
. = = =
}








k
F
k
x
dx
dU
F
x
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 11 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

Potential energy of external forces O = capacity of forces (body,
surface traction or applied nodal forces) to do work through
deformation of the structure

Potential energy of external force = - (external work done by force)
Negative is because potential energy is lost when work is done by
external force, e.g. vertical position of a mass.











x x x x x x x
x x x x x x p
d F d F Pd d F
d d k d d k d d k
4 4 3 3 2 1 1
2
2 4 3
2
1
2
2 3 2
2
1
2
1 2 1
2
1
) ( ) ( ) (

+ + = t



To minimize total potential energy, t
p
(d
1x
, d
2x
, d
3x
, d
4x
), set ct
p
/cd
ix
= 0.

0 ) ( /
1 1 2 1 1
= = c c
x x x x p
F d d k d t
0 ) ( ) ( ) ( /
2 4 3 2 3 2 1 2 1 2
= = c c P d d k d d k d d k d
x x x x x x x p
t
0 ) ( /
3 2 3 2 3
= = c c
x x x x p
F d d k d t
0 ) ( /
4 2 4 3 4
= = c c
x x x x p
F d d k d t

|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
(
(
(
(

+ +

=
|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
d
d
d
d
k k
k k
k k k k k k
k k
F
F
P
F
4
3
2
1
3 3
2 2
3 2 3 2 1 1
1 1
4
3
1
0 0
0 0
0 0


which is the same as obtained by the first two approaches.




1
4
4
k
1
k
3
P

k
2
2 F
3x
F
4x
F
1x
3
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 12 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

1.2 Another Example Truss Problem

Above example is limited to spring (or rod or truss) elements aligned
in the same direction. We shall now consider inclined elements and
forces. For example, the truss in the figure below NEED TO CHANGE
THE EQUATIONS SUCH THAT DIRECTION IS TAKEN CARE OF


1.2.1 Transformation Matrix













In the right hand figure above, the (displacement) vector d can be
expressed using either the x-y or the x-y coordinate systems. That is,

' '
' '
j d i d j d i d d
y x y x
+ = + =

where i, j, i and j are unit vectors in the respective directions. i and
j can be expressed in terms of i and j through angle . That is,
o
F
k
1

k
2

k
3

1
2
3
4

o
x
d
d
x

x
d
y

d
x

y

y
d
y

o
x
i
y
icos
isin
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 13 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

j i j
j i i
. cos . sin '
. sin . cos '
u u
u u
+ =
+ =


Substituting into d gives

) . cos . sin ( ) . sin . (cos
' '
j i d j i d j d i d d
y x y x
u u u u + + + = + =

Hence, u u u u cos sin sin cos
' ' ' ' y x y y x x
d d d d d d + = =

Or
|
|
.
|

\
|
(


==
|
|
.
|

\
|
(


=
|
|
.
|

\
|
'
'
'
'
cos sin
sin cos
y
x
y
x
y
x
d
d
C S
S C
d
d
d
d
u u
u u


where C = cos and S = sin . It can also be shown that

|
|
.
|

\
|
(

==
|
|
.
|

\
|
y
x
y
x
d
d
C S
S C
d
d
'
'


The matrix
(

C S
S C
is known as the transformation (or rotation)
matrix. For example, it can be used to relate the global displacement
(or force which is in a certain orientation) to local displacement (or
force which may be in a different orientation).

CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 14 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

1.2.2 Global Stiffness Matrix for Inclined Element

We now formulate the global stiffness matrix (meaning wrt global
coordinate system) of an inclined bar (or spring or truss) element




f = k
e
.d

1 ' 1 '
1 ' 1
2 ' 2
2 ' 2
0 0
'
0 0 0 0
0 0 '
0 0 0 0 '
x x
y y
x x
y y
f d
k k
f d
f k k d
f d
| | | |
(
| |
(
| |
(
=
| |
(
| |
(
| |

\ . \ .


u u u u sin cos sin cos
2 2 ' 2 1 1 ' 1 y x x y x x
d d d d d d + = + =

|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
(

=
|
|
.
|

\
|
y
x
y
x
x
x
d
d
d
d
S C
S C
d
d
2
2
1
1
' 2
' 1
0 0
0 0

or d=T*d where
(

=
S C
S C
T
0 0
0 0


However, T is not a square matrix and to make future manipulation
easier, we can introduce d
1y
and d
2y
(they are zero quantities wrt to
figure above).

|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
(
(
(
(

=
|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
y
x
y
x
y
x
y
x
d
d
d
d
C S
S C
C S
S C
d
d
d
d
2
2
1
1
' 2
' 2
' 1
' 1
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
with
(
(
(
(

=
C S
S C
C S
S C
T
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0



o
x
x
y

d
1x

d
2x

k
1 ' 1 '
2 ' 2 '
x x
x x
f d k k
f d k k
| | | | (
=
| | (

\ . \ .
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 15 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

Similarly the forces can be transformed in the same manner as
displacements,

|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
(
(
(
(

=
|
|
|
|
|
.
|

\
|
y
x
y
x
y
x
y
x
f
f
f
f
C S
S C
C S
S C
f
f
f
f
2
2
1
1
' 2
' 2
' 1
' 1
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0

or f=T*f where
(
(
(
(

=
C S
S C
C S
S C
T
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0


Hence, f = k
e
*d = k
e
*T*d or T*f = k
e
*T*d

giving f = T
-1
*k
e
*T*d = k
g
*d where T
-1
is the inverse of T .

It can be shown that T
-1
= T
T
where T
T
is the transpose of T .

Hence, k
g
= T
T
*k
e
*T

For the spring (or rod or truss) element, it can be shown that
2 2
2 2
2
2
g
C CS C CS
S CS S
k k
C CS
Sym S
(

(
(
=
(
(
(


For the case where = 0,
1 0 1 0
0 0 0
1 0
0
g
k k
Sym
(
(
(
=
(
(


which is to be expected.

Hence, for general 2D truss problems, all the members are
formulated with respect to the global coordinate system before
assembling to get the total stiffness matrix. Solve homework Q1 & Q2.
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 16 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

1.3 Finite Element Method

In the above 2 examples, we basically do the following:
- split the entire structures into elements (discretization),
- formulate the equation for each element,
- assemble the equations resulting in a set of simultaneous
equations involving unknown nodal displacements,
- solve for the nodal displacements
- compute the boundary forces from the known displacements
- compute the internal forces in each element using the
element equations.

In the 2 examples, the structure is in reality constructed by
assembling physical elements. So, the approach to solve the
problem is easy to accept as it reflects reality. The question arises
whether such approach can be used to solve more complicated
problems. In fact, this has been well-developed to solve not only
discrete structures such as truss and frames, but also 2D and 3D
problems such as dams, slabs, shell structures, details of joints,
cracks in bearings, cooling towers, flow problems, biomechanics such
as blood cells and blood flow, linear and nonlinear problems, static,
dynamic and impact problems, etc. This numerical method is
commonly known as the FINITE ELEMENT METHOD.










Three-dimensional
view of structure on
top of depot
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 17 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM


Finite Element Model of Spherical Ball and Steel Bearing

(a) (b)
Von Mises Stress (N/mm
2
) Distribution in Upper Hemispherical Cap



Comparison of FE model with half-space model. (a) deformed FE mesh (R
p
*
= 0.5 and e
*

= 0.06) of cell aspirated into micropipette. (b) half-space model.
(a) (b)
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 18 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM


Meshes for hybrid-fiber ECC panel and the surrounding void area.





(a) 3D view (b) Side view





Hybrid-fiber ECC target
Shared nodes between the hybrid-fiber ECC target and surrounding void
area
Steel projectile
Support Support
Void
Projectile
Void space
Hybrid-fiber ECC
Void space
Penetration
depth
Void space
Projectile
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 19 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

Finite element softwares are now used in every engineering
consulting companies, including those involving structures,
geotechnics, hydraulics, pavement, manufacturing, aircraft, ships,
chemical, electronics and offshore companies.

Why such power? Versatility within one single computer problem. It
can almost analysed problems with arbitrary shapes, loads and
boundary conditions. It contains element library of different shapes,
types and physical properties.

Danger? Reliability of program. Intelligent use. Experience and good
engineering judgment needed to define a good model. Proper inputs
are required. Voluminous output must be sorted and understood.
Feeling of correctness of solution is important for complex problems.

Why not directly use the FE software but go through a FE course?
Many types of elements are available to solve different problems and
practitioners must understand how various elements behave to use
them and interpret the results properly. Treatment of loads and
boundary conditions in the program must be understood. Users must
know the limitations, such as material models, so that the problem is
appropriately modeled.

Examples of FE packages:
STRUDL (1965), NASTRAN (1966), PAFEC (1969), SESAM (1969),
ANSYS (1970), SAP (1970), DIANA (1972), ADINA (1975), FEAP
(1975), DYNA2D & DYNA3D (1978), ABAQUS (1979), COSMOS/M
(1982), ALGOR (1984), LSDYNA, SAP2000, ETABS, GTSTRUDL,
etc.


CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 20 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

1.4 Objective of CE 4257 Linear Finite Element Method

The objective of this module is to equip students with fundamentals of
finite element principles so as to enable them to understand the
behavior of various finite elements and to be able to select
appropriate elements to solve physical and engineering problems
with emphasis on structural and geotechnical engineering
applications.

Upon completion of this course, student will be able to:
- analyse linear, axisymmetric and/or field problems in structural and
geotechnical disciplines using appropriate finite elements
- engage in further studies on advanced finite element procedures


CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 21 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

1.5 Course Outline

1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Example Structure with Spring/Rod/Truss Elements
1.1.1 Spring or Truss Element
1.1.2 Solution by Direct Equilibrium Approach
1.1.3 Solution by Stiffness Approach
1.1.4 Solution by Energy Approach
1.2 Example 2-D Truss Structure
1.2.1 Transformation Matrix
1.2.2 Global Stiffness Matrix for Inclined Element
1.3 Finite Element Method
1.4 Objective of CE4257
1.5 Course Outline
1.6 References
1.7 Proposed Schedule
1.8 Homework & Assignments

2. One-Dimensional Elements
2.1 Uniaxial Stress (or Truss or Axial) Element
2.1.1 Simple Axial Example Analytical Solution
2.1.2 Constant Strain Element (Linear Element)
2.1.3 Principle of Virtual Work
2.1.4 Summary of Equations for Constant Strain Formulation
2.1.5 Using Finer Elements
2.1.6 Linear Strain Element (Quadratic Element)
2.1.7 Comparison of Results
2.2 Special Considerations
2.2.1 h and p Convergence
2.2.2 Normalized Coordinates
2.2.3 Linear Isoparametric Element
2.2.4 Sub-parametric Element
2.2.5 Numerical Integration
2.3 Beam (flexural) element
2.3.1 Displacement Shape Function
2.3.2 Strain-Displacement Relation
2.3.3 Element Stiffness Matrix
2.3.4 Equivalent (consistent) Nodal Load Vector
2.3.5 Inclined Element
2.3.6 Numerical Example
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 22 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

3. Equations in Elastic Mechanics
3.1 Equilibrium Differential Equations
3.2 Strain-Displacement and Compatibility Equations
3.3 Constitutive (Stress-Strain) Relationships
3.4 Boundary Conditions (Stresses)
3.5 Summary of equations for 2-D problems

4 Two-Dimensional Elements
4.1 Triangular 3-node element (CST)
4.2 Formulation using normalized (area) coordinates
4.3 Integration using Area Coordinates
4.4 Numerical Example
4.5 Stress Averaging
4.6 Triangular 6-node element (LST)
4.7 Complete, Compatible and Conforming Elements
4.8 Modelling Considerations
4.8.1 Symmetry
4.8.2 Discretization
4.8.3 Stress Concentration Areas
4.8.4 Substructures
4.8.5 Consistent versus Lumped Formulation
4.8.6 Element and Node Numbering
4.9 Bilinear Quadrilateral (Q-4) Element
4.9.1 Isoparametric Quadrilateral 4-node (Q-4) Element
4.9.2 Interpolation Function by Lagrange Family of Elements
4.9.3 Interpolation Function by Lines of Zero Value Method
4.9.4 Strain-Displacement Relationship
4.9.5 Element Stiffness Matrix
4.9.6 Numerical Integration in 2-D
4.9.7 Body Forces, Surfaces Forces and Element Stresses
4.9.8 Numerical Example Computing B and K matrix
4.10 Quadrilateral 8-node (Q-8 or Serendipity) Element
4.11 Bi-Quadratic (Q-9) Element
4.12 Transition Elements
4.13 Comparison of Performances of Various Elements
4.14 Special Considerations symmetry, physical checks, stress
plots, meshing, infinite elements, patch test, Gauss quadrature,
skew boundary conditions, temperature-induced strain
4.15 Axisymmetric Stress Analysis

CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 23 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

Part 2 actual details to be decided by Professor Koh Chan Ghee

5 Weighted Residual Methods
5.1 Introduction to Various Methods
- collocation, least squares, Galerkin, subdomain
5.2 Galerkin FE Method
5.3 Compatibility Requirements
5.4 Weak Formulation
5.5 Applications

6 Three-Dimensional Stress Analysis
a. Four-Noded Tetrahedra
b. Eight-Noded Hexahedron
c. Brief Discussion of Higher-Order 3-D Elements
d. Applications

7 Field Problems
a. Fluid Flow using Laplace Equation
b. Finite Element Formulation using Galerkin Method
c. Seepage Analysis
d. Brief Discussion of Other Applications : Torsion, Heat
Transfer,

8 Special Topics (subject to change)
a. Special Elements in Common Use : Plate Elements,
Interface Elements
b. Drained, Undrained and Consolidation Analysis in Soil-
Structure Interaction Analysis
c. Small Strain vs Updated Mesh Analysis
d. An example analysis involving superstructure, foundation,
and soil to illustrate how structural and geotechnical
engineers model the problem from different angles.
e. Limitations of Linear Material Behavior Considerations,
especially for sands and soft clays.
f. Importance of Sensitivity Studies and other Sanity Checks


Note items in yellow may or may not be taught depending on the
lecturer who is teaching that part of the course.

CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 24 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

1.6 References

1. Grandin, H., Fundamentals of the Finite Element Method,
Macmillan Publishing Company, 1986.

2. Zienkiewicz, O.C. and Morgan, K., Finite Elements and
Approximation, John Wiley and Sons, 1983.

3. Cook, R.D., Finite Element Modelling for Stress Analysis, John
Wiley and Sons, 1995.

4. Weaver, W. And Johnston, P.R., Finite Elements for Structural
Analysis, Prentice-Hall, 1984.

5. Beer, G. And Watson, J.O., Introduction to Finite and Boundary
Element Methods for Engineers, John Wiley and Sons, 1992.

6. D.L. Logan, A First Course in the Finite Element Method, Third
Edition, Thomson Learning, 2001, TA347.F5L 64.

7. J.N. Reddy, An Introduction to the Finite Element Method,
Second Edition, McGraw-Hill International Editions, Singapore.





CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 25 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

1.7 Proposed Schedule

Venue: Room E3-06-08 Day & Time: Wednesday, 6 to 9 p.m.

Lecture 1 11/8/07 Chapter 1, 2
Lecture 2 18/8/07 Chapter 2
Lecture 3 25/8/07 Chapter 3, 4.5
Lecture 4 1/9/07 Chapter 4.6 4.10
Lecture 5 8/9/07 SAP2000 & Discuss Q1-8
Lecture 6 15/9/07 Chapter 4.11 4.15
Term break 22/9/07
Lecture 7 29/9/07

1.8 Homework & Project Assignments

Question Group 1 Group 2 Date to submit Chapter
1 X 18 August 2.1.4
2 X 18 August 2.1.4
3 X 25 August 2.3.6
4 X 25 August 2.3.6
5 X 1 Sept 4.4
6 X 1 Sept 4.4
7 X 8 Sept 4.5
8 X 8 Sept 4.5
9 X X 15 Sept 4.9
10 X X 15 Sept 4.9
11 X (opt) X (opt) 15 Sept 4.9
12 X 22 Sept 4.10
13 X 22 Sept 4.10
Project 1 6 October
Exam 24 Nov 10










CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 26 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM

Project topic of your choice but must make use of FE program

To include discussion on at least the following:
description of problem (plane stress or strain, 2D or 3D, etc)
choice of FE program, element to use and no. of integration points
mesh size study (uniform vs non-uniform, coarse vs fine mesh)
regions of high and low stresses (mesh distribution)
correctness of solution (what checks you use)
other issues of interest

Some examples of problems that have been used cannot be used again!


-------------------------------------

-----------------------------------------
CE4257 LINEAR FINITE ELEMENT METHOD by Professor Quek Ser Tong

_____________________________________________________________________________
D:\...\CE4257-1-INTRODUCTION 27 Last printed 8/7/2010 11:13 PM





--------------------------------------------

You might also like