An Explicit Finite Element Primer

The purpose of this primer is to provide the basics of the Finite Element Method, primarily illustrated through a classical model problem, linearized elasticity. The topics covered are: (1) Weighted residual methods and Galerkin approximations, (2) A model problem for one-dimensional linear elastostatics, (3) Weak formulations in one dimension, (4) Minimum principles in one dimension, (5) Error estimation in one dimension, (5) Construction of Finite Element basis functions in one dimension, (6) Gaussian Quadrature, (7) Iterative solvers and element by element data structures, (8) A model problem for three-dimensional linear elastostatics, (9) Weak formulations in three dimensions, (10) Basic rules for element construction in three-dimensions, (11) Assembly of the system and solution schemes, (12) Assembly of the system and solution schemes, (13) An introduction to time-dependent problems and (14) A brief introduction to rapid computation based on domain decomposition and basic parallel processing.

A thorough guide to the fundamentals--and how to use them--of finite element analysis for elastic structures For elastic structures, the finite element method is an invaluable tool which is used most effectively only when one understands completely each of its facets. A Primer for Finite Elements in Elastic Structures disassembles the entire finite element method for civil engineering students and professionals, detailing its supportive theory and its mathematical and structural underpinnings, in the context of elastic structures and the principle of virtual work. The book opens with a discussion of matrix algebra and algebraic equation systems to foster the basic skills required to successfully understand and use the finite element method. Key mathematical concepts outlined here are joined to pertinent concepts from mechanics and structural theory, with the method constructed in terms of one-dimensional truss and framework finite elements. The use of these one-dimensional elements in the early chapters promotes better understanding of the fundamentals. Subsequent chapters describe many two-dimensional structural finite elements in depth, including the geometry, mechanics, transformations, and mapping needed for them. Most chapters end with questions and problems which review the text material. Answers for many of these are at the end of the book. An appendix describes how to use MATLAB(r), a popular matrix-manipulation software platform necessary to perform the many matrix operations required for the finite element method, such as matrix addition, multiplication, inversion, partitioning, rearrangement, and assembly. As an added extra, the m-files discussed can be downloaded from the Wiley FTP server.

Nonlinear Optimization of Vehicle Safety Structures: Modeling of Structures Subjected to Large Deformations provides a cutting-edge overview of the latest optimization methods for vehicle structural design. The book focuses on large deformation structural optimization algorithms and applications, covering the basic principles of modern day topology optimization and comparing the benefits and flaws of different algorithms in use. The complications of non-linear optimization are highlighted, along with the shortcomings of recently proposed algorithms. Using industry relevant case studies, users will how optimization software can be used to address challenging vehicle safety structure problems and how to explore the limitations of the approaches given. The authors draw on research work with the likes of MIRA, Jaguar Land Rover and Tata Motors European Technology Centre as part of multi-million pound European funded research projects, emphasizing the industry applications of recent advances. The book is intended for crash engineers, restraints system engineers and vehicle dynamics engineers, as well as other mechanical, automotive and aerospace engineers, researchers and students with a structural focus. Focuses on non-linear, large deformation structural optimization problems relating to vehicle safety Discusses the limitations of different algorithms in use and offers guidance on best practice approaches through the use of relevant case studies Author's present research from the cutting-edge of the industry, including research from leading European automotive companies and organizations Uses industry relevant case studies, allowing users to understand how optimization software can be used to address challenging vehicle safety structure problems and how to explore the limitations of the approaches given

Multifunctional Metallic Hollow Sphere Structures are an emerging new material category, belonging like metal foams to the class cellular metals. Thanks to their advantageous mechanical and sound absorbing properties, Multifunctional Metallic Hollow Sphere Structures are very promising for various applications and our technological knowledge makes them ready for industrial usage. This reference gives a complete overview on this new materials class, the fundamentals, the applications and the perspective for future use. It provides the foundations for a profound understanding (production and processing), their physical properties (surface properties and stalility) and applicaltion (in particular for sound absorption and chemical adsorption in structural parts). The book is written for material scientists, product designers and developers as well as academic researches and scientists.