The finite element analysis of elasto-static problem including automatic mesh generation

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to resent the Finite Element Method as a working tool for the stress analyst. This work is an attempt to explain the subject with sufficient clarity so that the reader can master the fundamentals of the subject from theory through practical use, thus enabling him to develop programs for his own particular applications in his own area of specialty. In this thesis, eight main programs dealing with elasticity problems are presented including the axial bar element, the triangular plane stress-plane strain element for both constant stress and linearly varying stress, the combined bar element and plane stress triangular element, the transverse plate bending element, the automatic mesh generation code, and lastly the automatic mesh generation for both the bar element and the triangular element. Emphasis is placed on the triangular plane stress element since it has a history of good mathematical performance; therefore, it is utilized to demonstrate all the features typical of a typical finite element computer code. Fore each computer code that is constructed a flow chart is presented, a guide for the data input to the code is summarized, and a sample problem is solved. Input data, program output, and numerical interpretation and comparisons are summarized for each problem considered.