Introduction to the Finite Element Method, Fourth Edition

An up-to-date, self-contained introduction to the theory and applications of the finite element method. This thoroughly revised classic engineering textbook offers a broad-based overview of the finite element method. Written by a world-renowned mechanical engineering researcher and author, the book shows, step-by-step, how to calculate numerical solutions to steady-state as well as time-dependent problems. You also get detailed problems with worked-out solutions and downloadable programs that can be used and modified for real-world situations. Special attention is paid to applications that are important in bioengineering, fluid and thermal sciences, structural mechanics, and a host of applied sciences.

Introduction to the Finite Element Method, Fourth Edition, covers:

• Mathematical preliminaries and classical variational methods

• 1-D finite element models of second-order differential equations

• Applications to 1-D heat transfer and fluid and solid mechanics problems

• Finite element analysis of beams and circular plates

• Plane trusses and frames

• Eigenvalue and time-dependent problems in 1-D

• Numerical integration and computer implementation in 1-D

• Single-variable problems in two dimensions

• 2-D interpolation functions, numerical integration, and computer implementation in 2-D

• Flows of viscous incompressible fluids

• Plane elasticity

• 3-D finite element analysis

Authors: J. N. Reddy, Ph.D