Introduction to the finite element method

The course gives a concise introduction to the fundamental principles of the Finite Element Method with particular application to linear partial differential equations relevant in solid mechanics. Important ingredients are: strong/weak forms of the equilibrium equations, spatial discretization and shape functions, assembly operations and application of boundary conditions. The method is applied to solving one- and two-dimensional quasistatic boundary value problems. An outlook on the application of the FEM to physically-nonlinear problems is also discussed.
Emphasis is further placed on acquiring practical experience with commercial FEM simulation packages (SIMULIA Abaqus FEA). The exercises/assignments include the application of the method to obtain approximate solutions to well-known strength-of-materials type problems.