Finite Element Programs in Structural Engineering and Continuum Mechanics

Bridging the gap between theoretical texts and the massive and expensive software packages, this handbook covers finite element programming in a wide range of problems in mechanical, civil, aeronautical and electrical engineering. Comprehensive, it ranges from the static analysis of two- and three-dimensional structures to stress analysis of thick slabs on elastic foundations, and from two- and three- dimensional vibration analysis problems to two-dimensional field problems including heat transfer and acoustic vibrations. The 24 printouts of powerful and valuable engineering computer programs, written in QUICK BASIC, are introduced by a preliminary chapter giving useful hints and formulae intended for structural design. The programs are capable of analysing problems in engineering design and manufacture, with text fully describing how to use the computer programs for their particular problems or tasks. The finite element method is used in all the programs, and the problems for analysis can be of quite complex design and shape and with complex boundary conditions.