Finite Element Analysis is the leading engineer’s tool to analyze structures concerning engineering mechanics (e.g., statics, heat flows, eigenvalue problems). This book provides well-chosen aspects of this method so that both students and practitioners can apply this knowledge immediately to the solution of practical problems. Over 30 examples, along with all input data files on DVD, allow a comprehensive practical training of engineering mechanics.

Two powerful FEA programs are provided on DVD: Z88, the open source finite elements program for static calculations, as well as Z88Aurora, the ready-to-use, powerful freeware finite elements program that can also be used for non-linear calculations, stationary heat flows, and eigenproblems (i.e., natural frequencies). Both are full versions with which arbitrarily big structures can be computed – only limited by your computer memory and your imagination.

For Z88 all sources are fully available, so that the reader can study the theoretical aspects in the program code and extend it if necessary. Z88 and Z88Aurora are ready-to-run for Windows and LINUX as well as for Mac OS X. For Android devices there is an app called Z88Tina that can be downloaded from Google Play Store.

Contents:

Introduction. The Basic Procedure. Some Elasticity Theory. Finite Elements and Element Matrices. Compilation, Storage Schemes and Boundary Conditions. Solvers. Stresses and Nodal Forces. Mesh Generation of Curvilinear Finite Elements. Z88: The Basics. Z88: The Modules. Generating Input Files. The Finite Elements of Z88 and Z88Aurora. Examples.