Partial Differential Equations And The Finite Element Method

A systematic introduction to partial differential equations and modern finite element methods for their efficient numerical solution Partial Differential Equations and the Finite Element Method provides a much-needed, clear, and systematic introduction to modern theory of partial differential equations (PDEs) and finite element methods (FEM). Both nodal and hierachic concepts of the FEM are examined. Reflecting the growing complexity and multiscale nature of current engineering and scientific problems, the author emphasizes higher-order finite element methods such as the spectral or hp-FEM. A solid introduction to the theory of PDEs and FEM contained in Chapters 1-4 serves as the core and foundation of the publication. Chapter 5 is devoted to modern higher-order methods for the numerical solution of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) that arise in the semidiscretization of time-dependent PDEs by the Method of Lines (MOL). Chapter 6 discusses fourth-order PDEs rooted in the bending of elastic beams and plates and approximates their solution by means of higher-order Hermite and Argyris elements. Finally, Chapter 7 introduces the reader to various PDEs governing computational electromagnetics and describes their finite element approximation, including modern higher-order edge elements for Maxwell's equations. The understanding of many theoretical and practical aspects of both PDEs and FEM requires a solid knowledge of linear algebra and elementary functional analysis, such as functions and linear operators in the Lebesgue, Hilbert, and Sobolev spaces. These topics are discussed with the help of many illustrative examples in Appendix A, which is provided as a service for those readers who need to gain the necessary background or require a refresher tutorial. Appendix B presents several finite element computations rooted in practical engineering problems and demonstrates the benefits of using higher-order FEM. Numerous finite element algorithms are written out in detail alongside implementation discussions. Exercises, including many that involve programming the FEM, are designed to assist the reader in solving typical problems in engineering and science. Specifically designed as a coursebook, this student-tested publication is geared to upper-level undergraduates and graduate students in all disciplines of computational engineeringand science. It is also a practical problem-solving reference for researchers, engineers, and physicists.

An accessible introduction to the finite element method for solving numeric problems, this volume offers the keys to an important technique in computational mathematics. Suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses, it outlines clear connections with applications and considers numerous examples from a variety of science- and engineering-related specialties.This text encompasses all varieties of the basic linear partial differential equations, including elliptic, parabolic and hyperbolic problems, as well as stationary and time-dependent problems. Additional topics include finite element methods for integral equations, an introduction to nonlinear problems, and considerations of unique developments of finite element techniques related to parabolic problems, including methods for automatic time step control. The relevant mathematics are expressed in non-technical terms whenever possible, in the interests of keeping the treatment accessible to a majority of students.

An introduction to the application of the finite element method to the solution of boundary and initial-value problems posed in terms of partial differential equations. Contains worked examples throughout and each chapter has a set of exercises with detailed solutions.

This book is a tutorial written by researchers and developers behind the FEniCS Project and explores an advanced, expressive approach to the development of mathematical software. The presentation spans mathematical background, software design and the use of FEniCS in applications. Theoretical aspects are complemented with computer code which is available as free/open source software. The book begins with a special introductory tutorial for beginners. Following are chapters in Part I addressing fundamental aspects of the approach to automating the creation of finite element solvers. Chapters in Part II address the design and implementation of the FEnicS software. Chapters in Part III present the application of FEniCS to a wide range of applications, including fluid flow, solid mechanics, electromagnetics and geophysics.

This book gives an introduction to the finite element method as a general computational method for solving partial differential equations approximately. Our approach is mathematical in nature with a strong focus on the underlying mathematical principles, such as approximation properties of piecewise polynomial spaces, and variational formulations of partial differential equations, but with a minimum level of advanced mathematical machinery from functional analysis and partial differential equations. In principle, the material should be accessible to students with only knowledge of calculus of several variables, basic partial differential equations, and linear algebra, as the necessary concepts from more advanced analysis are introduced when needed. Throughout the text we emphasize implementation of the involved algorithms, and have therefore mixed mathematical theory with concrete computer code using the numerical software MATLAB is and its PDE-Toolbox. We have also had the ambition to cover some of the most important applications of finite elements and the basic finite element methods developed for those applications, including diffusion and transport phenomena, solid and fluid mechanics, and also electromagnetics.​

This text can be used for two quite different purposes. It can be used as a reference book for the PDElPROTRAN user· who wishes to know more about the methods employed by PDE/PROTRAN Edition 1 (or its predecessor, TWODEPEP) in solving two-dimensional partial differential equations. However, because PDE/PROTRAN solves such a wide class of problems, an outline of the algorithms contained in PDElPROTRAN is also quite suitable as a text for an introductory graduate level finite element course. Algorithms which solve elliptic, parabolic, hyperbolic, and eigenvalue partial differential equation problems are pre sented, as are techniques appropriate for treatment of singularities, curved boundaries, nonsymmetric and nonlinear problems, and systems of PDEs. Direct and iterative linear equation solvers are studied. Although the text emphasizes those algorithms which are actually implemented in PDEI PROTRAN, and does not discuss in detail one- and three-dimensional problems, or collocation and least squares finite element methods, for example, many of the most commonly used techniques are studied in detail. Algorithms applicable to general problems are naturally emphasized, and not special purpose algorithms which may be more efficient for specialized problems, such as Laplace's equation. It can be argued, however, that the student will better understand the finite element method after seeing the details of one successful implementation than after seeing a broad overview of the many types of elements, linear equation solvers, and other options in existence.

The Mathematical Foundations of the Finite Element Method with Applications to Partial Differential Equations is a collection of papers presented at the 1972 Symposium by the same title, held at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County Campus. This symposium relates considerable numerical analysis involved in research in both theoretical and practical aspects of the finite element method. This text is organized into three parts encompassing 34 chapters. Part I focuses on the mathematical foundations of the finite element method, including papers on theory of approximation, variational principles, the problems of perturbations, and the eigenvalue problem. Part II covers a large number of important results of both a theoretical and a practical nature. This part discusses the piecewise analytic interpolation and approximation of triangulated polygons; the Patch test for convergence of finite elements; solutions for Dirichlet problems; variational crimes in the field; and superconvergence result for the approximate solution of the heat equation by a collocation method. Part III explores the many practical aspects of finite element method. This book will be of great value to mathematicians, engineers, and physicists.

Master the finite element method with this masterful and practical volume An Introduction to the Finite Element Method (FEM) for Differential Equations provides readers with a practical and approachable examination of the use of the finite element method in mathematics. Author Mohammad Asadzadeh covers basic FEM theory, both in one-dimensional and higher dimensional cases. The book is filled with concrete strategies and useful methods to simplify its complex mathematical contents. Practically written and carefully detailed, An Introduction to the Finite Element Method covers topics including: An introduction to basic ordinary and partial differential equations The concept of fundamental solutions using Green's function approaches Polynomial approximations and interpolations, quadrature rules, and iterative numerical methods to solve linear systems of equations Higher-dimensional interpolation procedures Stability and convergence analysis of FEM for differential equations This book is ideal for upper-level undergraduate and graduate students in natural science and engineering. It belongs on the shelf of anyone seeking to improve their understanding of differential equations.