Matrix Structural Analysis and Introduction to Finite-Element Methods

This course presents the Matrix Structural Analysis (MSA) and Finite Element Methods (FEM) in a cohesive framework. The first half of the semester is devoted to MSA topics: derivation of truss, beam, and frame elements; assembly and partitioning of the global stiffness matrix; and equivalent nodal loads. The second half covers the following FEM topics: strong and weak forms of boundary value problems including steady-state heat conduction, and linear elasticity, Galerkin approximations, constant strain triangles, and isoparametric quads. Other topics such as dynamic analysis will also be discussed. MATLAB is used for computer assignments.