1.
Finite Element Analysis (FEA): Definition, Nodes, and Elements
Definition: Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a numerical method used to approximate solutions
to complex engineering and physical problems. By breaking down a large, complicated system
into smaller, manageable finite elements, FEA allows for the analysis of structures, fluids,
thermal systems, and more. It is extensively used in engineering disciplines to predict how
products will react to real-world forces, vibration, heat, fluid flow, and other physical effects.
Nodes:
Definition: Nodes are specific points within the finite element model where calculations are
performed. They serve as the connecting points between elements.
Role: Each node typically has degrees of freedom (DOF), such as displacement in various
directions, which are essential for determining the behavior of the entire system.
Example: In a 2D structural analysis, a node might have two DOFs: horizontal and vertical
displacements.
Elements:
Definition: Elements are the basic building blocks of the finite element model. They
represent small, discrete sections of the entire structure or system.
Types: Common element types include:
1D Elements: Such as beams and trusses.
2D Elements: Such as shells and plates.
3D Elements: Such as solid or volumetric elements.
Properties: Each element is defined by its geometry, material properties, and connectivity to
nodes. The behavior of each element is governed by mathematical equations derived from
physical laws.
2. Steps for Finite Element Analysis
Performing FEA involves a systematic sequence of steps to ensure accurate and meaningful
results. The typical steps are as follows:
1. Preprocessing:
Geometry Definition: Create the geometric model of the structure or system.
Material Properties Assignment: Define material characteristics such as
elasticity, density, and thermal properties.
Element Selection: Choose appropriate element types based on the problem.
Mesh Generation: Discretize the geometry into finite elements connected by
nodes.
2. Boundary Conditions and Loads:
Apply constraints (e.g., fixed supports) and external forces or other loads.
3. Solution:
Assembly of System Equations: Combine the individual element equations into
a global system representing the entire model.
Applying Boundary Conditions: Incorporate constraints into the global system.
Solving Equations: Use numerical methods to solve the system of equations for
nodal variables (e.g., displacements).
4. Post processing:
Results Interpretation: Extract and interpret results such as stresses, strains, and
deformations.
Visualization: Use graphical tools to visualize the behavior of the model under
applied loads.
Verification and Validation: Compare results with analytical solutions or
experimental data to ensure accuracy.
3. Shape Functions
Definition: Shape functions are mathematical functions used within finite elements to interpolate
the solution (e.g., displacement) between nodes. They define how the solution varies over the
domain of an element based on the nodal values.
Purpose:
To approximate the unknown field variables (like displacement) within an element using
the known values at the nodes.
Ensure continuity and smoothness of the solution across element boundaries.
Characteristics:
Interpolation: Shape functions interpolate the solution between nodes, ensuring that the
solution exactly matches the nodal values.
Polynomial Form: Typically, shape functions are polynomials of a certain degree,
depending on the element type and required accuracy.
Local Definition: Defined in the local coordinate system of an element, often using
natural or isoperimetric coordinates.
4. Stiffness Matrix
Definition: The stiffness matrix is a fundamental component in FEA that relates nodal
displacements to applied forces within an element. It quantifies the element's resistance to
deformation under external loads.
Formation:
Local Stiffness Matrix: Derived for each finite element based on its geometry, material
properties, and shape functions.
Global Stiffness Matrix: Assembled by combining all local stiffness matrices,
considering the connectivity and degrees of freedom of the entire system.
Properties:
Symmetric: The stiffness matrix is typically symmetric, Positive Definite: Ensures
stability and uniqueness of the solution, indicating that the structure has a positive
response to applied loads.
Sparse: In large systems, the global stiffness matrix is sparse, with most elements being
zero, which is advantageous for computational efficiency.
5. Basic Matrix Properties
Matrix Basics: Matrices are rectangular arrays of numbers arranged in rows and columns. They
are fundamental in FEA for representing systems of equations, transformations, and various
operations.
Key Properties:
Dimensions:
o Defined by the number of rows and columns (e.g., a 3×23 \times 23×2 matrix has
3 rows and 2 columns).
Types of Matrices:
Square Matrix: Same number of rows and columns.
Diagonal Matrix: Non-zero elements only on the main diagonal.
Symmetric Matrix: A=ATA = A^TA=AT, where ATA^TAT is the transpose.
Identity Matrix: A diagonal matrix with ones on the main diagonal.
Operations:
Addition/Subtraction: Element-wise operations on matrices of the same dimensions.
Multiplication:
o Scalar Multiplication: Each element multiplied by a scalar.
o Matrix Multiplication: Dot product of rows and columns, requiring compatible
dimensions.
Transpose: Flipping a matrix over its diagonal, switching rows and columns.
Determinant:
A scalar value calculated from a square matrix that provides information about the matrix
properties, such as invertibility.
Inverse:
A matrix A−1A^{-1}A−1 such that AA−1=IAA^{-1} = IAA−1=I, where III is the identity
matrix.
Only square matrices with non-zero determinants have inverses.
