Finite Element Beginnings

In order to read this electronic book, the user requires MathCad 3.1 (or higher). The book provides an illustrated introduction to the principles of the finite element method, a standard mathematical tool in the applied sciences. It is directed at students who wish to learn the basic theory behind this mathematical tool, as well as those who use existing finite element packages but would like to gain a firm theoretical understanding of the methodology. Items covered in "Finite Element Beginnings" include selecting interpolation functions, assembling stiffness matrices and solving for field variables at each node. Emphasis is given to the areas of structural analysis and boundary value problems. Each step of the method is implemented with live Mathcad calculations and plots, allowing the user to explore and experiment with the method interactively. In addition, a generalized finite element code is presented for applications outside the structural analysis area. Available in both an interactive form and a hard copy form, this title should be of interest to applied mathematicians and engineers in mechanical, civil, structural engineering and in such classic fields as fluid dynamics.