Introduction to finite element analysis

Introduction

This free course introduces the finite element method and instils the need for comprehensive evaluation and checking when interpreting results. Engineering is at the heart of modern life. Today, engineers use computers and software in the design and manufacture of most products, processes and systems. Finite element analysis (FEA) is an indispensable software tool in engineering design, and indeed in many other fields of science and technology.

In this course you will be introduced to the essence of FEA; what is it and why do we carry out FEA? As an example of its use, we will look briefly at the case of finite element analysis of the tub of a racing car.

Finally, if you have access to FEA software, you can try out the two exercises where step-by-step instructions are given to help you carry out a simple analysis of a plate and a square beam.

This OpenLearn course is an adapted extract from the Open University course T804 Finite element analysis: basic principles and applications [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)] .