Becoming a Finite Element Analyst

Becoming a Finite Element Analyst: A Design-Model-Verify Approach helps students become solid finite element analysts through hands-on lessons. Rather than focusing on theory, the book uses an inverted approach. Students are first shown how to build finite element models of real engineering parts through increasingly complex examples and case studies. They are then introduced to the accompanying theory. The book is based on a design-model-verify approach that teaches three key skills. Students will make decisions required to convert a real part into an appropriately simplified model. They will correctly choose the element types and boundary conditions to best represent their model. They will successfully interpret simulation results to determine if the results are realistic and reasonable. The target skills in Becoming a Finite Element Analyst include stress analysis of solids, beams, shells, and assemblies; modal and bucking analysis; and nonlinear and thermal analysis. Each lesson highlights basic concepts to be built on as the book progresses and provides a corresponding homework assignment or mini-project. Becoming a Finite Element Analyst is suitable for senior-level undergraduate or beginning graduate courses in applied finite element methods.