Teaching the Finite Element Method

This paper on "Teaching the Finite Element Method" was presented at the 5th International Conference on Reliability of Finite Element Methods for Engineering Applications - 10-12 May 1995, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Summary

The paper describes the way the introduction to the Finite Element Method (FEM) is taught by the author today and how, according to his opinion, it has to be taught in the near future. The FEM for 2D and 3D bar as well as beam structures is explained by using elementary knowledge of applied mechanics only. The advantage of this approach that all steps in the FEM process have a clear physical meaning. The prerequisite knowledge of linear algebra is limited. The FEM only exists thanks to the availability of fast computers. That implies that not only the theoretical aspects of the FEM has to be taught but also the aspects of computer implementation. This includes also a discussion of the errors that can result of a numerical calculation and the ways how to detect and prevent these errors. Extending the FEM to other elements, e.g. plane stress elements, requires additional and more difficult theoretical foundation, for instance the explanation of the principle of virtual work.