Finite Element Method

Abstract

A brief description of the finite element method principle is proposed for the mechanics of structures. A simple example of the calculation of the perimeter of a circle is intended to highlight the principle. In case of mechanics purpose, the relevance of the concept of nodes position, of forces on the nodes and of the stiffness of the structure is described. The distinction between the local, at the scale of each finite element, and the global, at the scale of the structure, is carried out. The way, the symmetry of the structure could be taken into account in the method, is described. The boundary conditions, a fixed component such an anchor or a fixed speed such a trawler, are defined in terms of finite element method.