Introducing Finite Element Analysis In Statics
Martin Pike
Abstract
When new technologies are developed, often they are introduced to engineering and technology students at the upper baccalaureate or graduate level. Over time, as the technologies mature, they are introduced to students and used by students earlier in the educational process. Such is the case with finite element analysis (FEA). FEA up to now generally has been introduced to engineering and technology students at the junior or senior level. Recently, associate degree graduates with exposure to FEA have been in demand by some industries. The sophistication and relative user-friendliness of modern modeling and analysis software has made it possible for an early introduction of FEA. This paper relates the experience and advantages of introducing FEA in a Statics course. The application of FEA was used to verify manual calculations and help predict if failure would occur where expected and in an expected mode. Through the analysis, build, and test process the students gained an appreciation for the power and limitations of FEA. Students also gained a first use experience that serves as a foundation for more sophisticated models and analysis for FEA use in future courses.