ntrodhiction 1.

145
& State the three phases offinite elenment method.
The three phases are: 1.
Preprocessing
2. Analysis.
3. Postprocessing
9. What is structural and non-structural problems?
Structural problems:
In structural problems,
displacement at cach nodal point is
obtained. By using these displacement solutions, stress and strain in esch element can be
calculated.

Nom-structural problewAS: In non-structural problems, lemperatures or tluid pressure

cach nodal point is obtained. By using these values, properties such as heat flow, fluid
flow, efc., or each element can be calculated,

10 What are the methods are generally associated with the finite element analysts?
The following two methods are generally A5sociated with the finite element
analysis.
are:

0 Force method.
(n Displacement or stiffness method.
11. Explaln force method and stiffness method?
In force method, internal forces are considered
the unknowns of the problem. In
as
displacement or stitfhess method, displacements of the nodes are considered as the
unknowns of the problem. Among them two approaches, displac ement method is
desirable.
12
Whypolynomlal oype of tnterpolation functions are mostiy used in FEM?
The polynomial type of
interpolation functions are mostly used due to the following
reasons:
. t is casy to formulate and
computerize the finite element ecquations.
2. It is easy to perform differentiation or
integration
3. The accuracy of the results can be improved by increasing order of the
polymomial.
the
13. Name the variational methods.
1. Ritz method.
2. Rayleigh-Ritz method.
14. Name the weighted residual methods.
1. Point collocation method.
2. Subdomain collocation method.
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L146 Finiie Element Analjsi

3. Least squares method.
4. Galerkin's method.
I5 What is meant by post processing? M.U, April 2001
Analysis and evaluation of the solution results is referred to as post processing. Post
processor computer programs belp the user to interpret the resuts by displaying them in
graphical fom.
l6 What s Rayleigh-Rit method?

Rayleigh-Ritz method is a integral approach method which is useful for solving complex
structural problems, encountered in finite element analysis. This method is possible anly
ifa suitable functional is available.
17. What is meant by discretization and assemblage?
The art of subdividing a structure into a convenient number of smaller components is
known as discretization. These smaller components are then put together. 1he process of
uniting the various elements together is called assemblage.
What is meant by degrees offreedom?
18.
When the force or reaction act st nodal point, node is subjected to deformation. The
deformation incudes displacement, roations, and/or strains. These are collectively
known as degrees of freedom.

19. What is "Aspect ratlo"?

Aspect ratio is defined as the ratio of the largest dimension of the element to the smallest
dimension. In many cases, as the aspect ratio increases, the inaccuracy of the solution
increases. The conclusion of many researches is that the aspect ratio should be close to
unity as possible.
20. What is truss element? M.U, Oct 99J
The truss clements are tho part of a truss structure linked together by point joints, which
transmit only axial force to the element.
21. Lsi the two advaniages ofpestprocesimg
1. Required result can be obtained in graphical form.
2. Contour diagrams can be used to understand the solution casily and quickly.
22 fa displacement field in x direction s given by u 2 x +4y3+619. Determne the
strain in x direction.
Ans. 2r+4y5*6xy
Strain, e 4x+6y
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One-Dimensional Problems 2611

3. Define Traction force (T).
Traction force is defined as a distributed force acting on the surface of the body.
Unit: Force per unit area.

Examples: Frictional resistance, viscous dreg, surface shear etc.

4. What is Point Load (P).

Point load is a force acting at a particular point which causes displacement.

S. What are the basie steps involved in thefinite element modeling.
Finite element modelling consists of the following
9 Discretization of structure.
(in Numbering of nodes.
G. What is discretization?
a structure into convenient number of smaller
The art
of subdividing
known as discretization.
a components is

7. What are the classification of co-ordinates?

The co-ordinates are generally classified as follows:
) Global co-ordinates.
(i) Local co-ordinates.
(ii) Natural co-ordinates.
&What is Global co-ordinates? [Ana University, June 2005]
The points in the entire structure are defined using co-ordinate system is known as
global co-ordinate system.
Example:

Node

Fig One dinmensional bar

9. What is natural co-ordinates? [Ana Uiniversity, Jan 20057

A natural co-ordinate system is used to define any point inside the element by a set of
dimensionless numbers, whose magnitude never exceeds unity. This system is very
useful in assembling of stifiness matrices.
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Tnirodwctio L.147
23. What are 'h' and p' versions offinite element method?
M.E. Anna university, Dec. 2003)
versions and p versions are used to improve the accuracy of the finite element
method.

In h versions, the order of polynomial approximation for all elements is kept constant
and the number of elements are increased.

In "p version, the number of elements are maintained constant and the order of
polynomial approximation of element is increased.
24 During discretization, mention the places where it is necessary to place a node?

M.U, April 2000

The following places are necessary to place a node during discretization process.
(0 Concentirated load acting point.
(i) Cross-section changing point.
(i) Diferent material interjunction point.

(iv) Sudden change in load point.

25. What is the diference between static and dynamic analysis? M.U., Apri 20001
Starie analysis: The solution of the problem does not vary with time is known as static
analysis.
Example: Stress analysis on a beam.
Dynamic analysis: The solution of the problem varies with time is known as dynamic
analysis.
Example: Vibration analysis problems.

26. Name anyfour PEA sofiwares M.U, April 98

ANSYS 2. NASTRAN.
3. COSMOs. 4. NISA.
27. Diferentiate between global and local axes.
Local axes are established in an element. Since it is in the element level, they change
with the change in orientation of the element. The direction differs from element to
element.

Global axes are defined for the entire system. They are same in direction for all the
elements even though the clements are differently oriented.
 DOwinoaucu rtoO wwW.asycgnceE.net

One-Dimensional Problems 2313

Example: Abar is subjected to axial load as shown in Fig.

In this problem, Displacement u at node I 0, that is primary boundary condition.

EA P , that is secondary boundary condition.

28. What are the derences between boundary value problem and initial value problem
Ana University, June 2005
The solution of differential equation is obtained for physical problems which satisfies
some specified conditions known as boundary conditions.

The differential equation

boundary value problem.
together with these boundary condtions, subjected to
The differential equation together with initial conditions subjected to an initial value
problem.
Examples: Boundary value problem.
d-ol)d br)y -etr)o
With boundary conditions, m) and

Initial value problem, ax2+ bx+c = 0

Boundary conditions: x(0) =
z(0) 7
29. Define heat transfer. [Anna University, June 2005)
Heat transfer can be defined as the transmission of energy from one region to another
region due to temperature difference.
30. Write down the siifness matrie equation for one dimensional heat conduction
element

Stiffness matrix [K] =

where, A Area of the element, m

kThermal conductivity of the clement, W/mK
Length of the element, m
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2317 Finite Element Analys

10 Defne shape functiom. Anna University, Dec 2007]

In finite element method, field variables within an element are generally expressed by
the following approximate relation:

where , and o, are the values of the field variable at the nodes and N, Ng and Ng
are the interpolation functions
N, N and N are also called shape functions because they are used to express the
geomeiry or shape of the element.

I1. What are the characteristics of shapefunction?

The characteristics of shape function are as follows:
1. The shape function has unit value at one nodal point and zero value at other nodal
points.
2. The sum of shape function is equal to one.

12. Why polynomials are generally used as shapefunction?

Polynomials are generally used as shape function due to the following reasons.

1. Differentiation and integration of polynomials are quite casy.

2. The accuracy of the results can be improved by increasing the order of the
polymomial.

3. It is easy to formulate and computerize the finite element equations.

13. How do you calculale the size of the global stifness matris?

Global stiffness matrix size = Number of nodes xegrces of freedom

per node

14.Give the general expression for element silfness matrie.

Stiffnessmatrix, [ K)=J[BT (D][B]dv

where, [B]> Strain displacement matrix [Row matrix).

[D] Stress, strain relationship matrix [Row matrix.

15. Write down the expression of sifnes matrix for one dimensional bar elememt.
Anna University, Jan 2000]
Stiffnes matrix[K] - |
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One-Dimersional Problems
2319
46 What are methods used for sobving transient vibration problems?
There are two methods for solving transient vibration problems. They are:
Mode superposition method
Direct integration method.

241, PROBLEMS FOR PRACTICE

1. For the vertical
bar shown in Fig, Find the delection at A and the stress distribution.
Use E- 150 MPa and weight per unit vohume 0.05
N/em
Ne 2000 am

Area 1000 cm

Fig0
2. Consider the bar in Fig (i). Calkculate the nodal displacements, element stresses, and

support reactions.

mm

400 KN

Fig (i)
Take
A300 mm, A=5o0 mm?, E-2x 10
N/mm
3. Consider the plane truss shown in Fig(i), Detemine the nodal displacements, forces
and support reactions. Take E -2x 10 N'mm?; A =1500 mm2.
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One-Dimerslonal Problem 2.317

37. Defne magnifiearion factor
of
The ratio the maximum displacement of the forcod vibration (Fm)to the static
deflection under the static force (X) is knowm as magnification factor.

38. Wrte down the expression of longtudinal vibration of bar element.

Free vibration equation for axial vibration of bar element is,

Where, - displacement

K] stiffness matrix

I)-[
-Natural frequencyY
m) Mass Matrix

:Lumped m)-2A
Consistent m PAL
39. Write down the expresslon of goerming equation for Jree axial vibrarion of rod.
The governing equation for fre axial vibration ofa rod is given by.

AE PA
Where, E-
Young's modulus,
- Cross-sectional area

P Density
40 Writedown theexpresslonofgoverning equationfor transverse vlbraton of beam
The goveming equation for free transverse vibration of a beam is,

Where, E- Young's modulus

I Moment of inertia

P Density
A Cross-sectional areca.
2.316 Finite Element Analysis
31. Wrie down the expresion of shape functlon N and temperature functio, Tfor one
dimensional heat conductlon element.
For one dimensional heat conduction element,
Temperature function, T =

NTi+N T1
where, Shape function, N,
Shapefunction, N
32. Wrte down the finite element equatlon for one dimenslonal heat conduction with free
end convectlon.
Finite element equation for one dimensional heat conduction with free end convection is
given by

where, A - Area of the element, m*

-
Themal conductivity ofthe clement, WmK
Length of the clement, m
h Heat transfer coefficient, W/m'K
a Fluid temperature, K

-
Surface temperature, K
33. Define frequency of vibration.

It is the number of cycles described in one second. Unit is Hz.

34. Define Damping ratio

It is defined as the ratio of actual damping coefficient (C)

coefticient (C): 243/436
Damping ratioe 2 m
35. What is meant by longitudinal vibrations?

When the particles of the shaft or disc moves parallel to the axis of the shaft, then the
vibrations are known as longitudinal vibrations.
36. What is meant by transverse vibrations?

When the particles of the shaft or disc move approximately perpendicular to the axis of
the shaft, then the vibrations are known as transverse vibrations.
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2.318 Finlie Element Analyss

41. Write down the expression of transverse vlbration of beam element
Free vibration equation for transverse vibration of beam element is,
[K](«) o[m] {«)
Where, [K] = Stiiness matrix for beam element

12 6L -12
6L
6L 4124L 212
IK)- -12 6L 126L
6L 212-6L 4L2
m) Mass matrix,

Is6 22L 4-13L

4L2
22L 13L312
[m) PAL
420 for consistent mass matrix.
54 13L 156 -22L
L-13L 312 -22L 412 J

AL 0 0
2 0 0 I 0for lumped mass matnx.
Lo 0 0 0J
42. What are the vpes of Elgen value problems?
There are essentially thre groups of method of solution,
1. Determinant based methods
2 Transformation based methods 244/ 436
3. Vector iteration methods

43. SMate the principle of superpostion.

that the individual responses to several disturbances or
tdriving for can
statesfunctions linearbe systems,
superposed on each other to obtain the total response of the
system.
44. Define resonance

When the froquency of extemal force is equal to the natural frequency of a vibrating
body, the amplit1de of vibration becomes excessively large. This phenomenon is known
as resonance.
45. Define Dynamic Analysis.
When the inertia effect due to the mass of the components is also considered in addition
to the cxtermaly aplied lond, then the analysis is called dynamic analysis.
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1146 Finite Element Ánabjsis

3. Least squares method.
4. Galerkin's method.
Is What is meant by pest processing? M.U, April 2001
Analysis and evaluation of the solution results is refered to as post procesing Post
processor computer programs help the user to interpret the results by displaying them in
gaphical form.
16 What s Rayleigh-Rit method?

Rayleigh-Ritz method is a integral approach method which is useful for solving complex
structural problems, encountered in finite element analysis. This method is possible only
ifa suitable functional is available.
17. What is meant by discretiation and assemblage?
The art of subdividing structure into a convenient mumber of smaller components
a
known as discretization. These smaller components are then put together. The process of
is
uniting the various elements together is called assemblage.

18. What is meant by degrees offreedom?

reaction act at nodal node is
When the force or point,
deformation inchudes displacement, rotations, andlor
subjected to
deformation. The
strains. These are collectively
known as degrees of freedom.
19. What is "Aspect ratio "7
Aspect ratio is defined as the ratio of the largest dimension of the element to the smallest
dunension. In many cases, as the aspect ratio increases, the inaccuracy of the solution
mcreases. he conclusion of many researches is that the aspect ratio should be close to

unity as possible.

20. What is truss element? IM.U, Oct. 99

The truss elements are the part of a truss structure linked together by point joinis, which
transmit only axial force to the element.

21. List the fwo advaniages of pos-processing.

1. Required result can be obtained in graphical form.
2. Contour diagrams can be used to understand the solution casily and quickly.
22 ya deplacement feld in x divecton b given by a 2x+4y'+ 6 Determione the
strain in x direction.
Ans. u 2x3+4y2+6xy
Strain, e 4x+6y
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L44 FIRite blemend Ana)S

1.27. TWO MARK QUESTIONS &ANSWERS

. State the methods of Engineering analyss
There are three methods of Engineering analysis. They are:
1. Experimental methods.
2. Analytical methods.
3. Numerical methods or approximate methods.
2. Phat ls meant by finie elemeni?
A small unit having definite shape of geometry and nodes is caled finite element.
3.What is meant by finite element anabysis 7
Finite clement method is a numerical method for solving problems of Engineering and
Mathematical physics.
In the finite element method, instead of solving the problem for the entire body in one
operation. we formulate the cquations for each finite element and combine them to
obtain the solution of the whole body.
4Give examples for the finite element.
1. One dimemsional elements: (a) Tuss elements.

(b) Bar, Bcam elements.

2 Two dimensional elements: (a) Tnangular elements.
() Rectangular elements.
3. Three dimensional elements: (a) Tetrahedral elements.
(6) Hexahedral clements.
What is meant by node or joint?
Each kind of finite element has a specific structural shape and is interconnected with the
adjacent elements by nodal points or nodes. At the nodes, degres of froedom are
located. The forces will act only at nodes and not at any other place in the element.
What is the basis of finite element method?
Diseretization is the basis of finite element method. The art of subdividing a structure
into a covenient number of smaller components is known as discretization.
7. What are the types of boundary conditions?

There are two types of boundary conditions. They are:

1. Primary boundary condition.
2. Secondary boundary condition.
 Finite Element Analysis O

22. Write down the expression of shape function N and

dimenslonal bar element.
displacement u sor one

lAnma Unhversity, Jan 2005

For one dimensional bar element,
Displacement function, u- N, +Nhh

where, Shapefunction, N
Shapefunction, Na
23. Define total potential energy.
The total potential energy
of an elastic body, is defined as the sum of total strain
energy U and the potential energy of the extermal forces, (W).

Total potential energy, Strain Potential energy of

energ (0)*\the extermal forces (W)J
28

24. State the principle of mlnimum

potential energy. {Anna University, Dec 2007
The principle of minimum potential energy states: Among all the displacement cquations
that satisty intemal compatibility and the
boundary conditions, those that also satisfy the
equations equilibrium make the potential energy a minimum in a stable system.
of
25. What is the stationar property of total
potential energy.
Ifa body is in equilibrium, its total potential
energy x is stationary.
For stable equilibrium, 8>0, otherwise n is minimum for stable
equilibrium.
For neutral cquilibrium, 62x -0. In this case x is unchanging
For unstable equilibrium, 8't <0, otherwise t is maximum.
242/ 436
26 State the principles of virtual work.
Ana Cniversiy, Dec 2006
A body is in equilibrium if the internal virtual work equals the extermal virtual work for
every kinematically admissible displacement field.
27. Distingulsh between essential boundary conditlons and natural
boundary condittons.
[Anna Unversity, Dec 2006
There are two types of boundary conditions. They are:
Primary boundary condinion (or) Essential boundary comdition*
The boundary condition which in terms of ficld variable is known as primary boundary
condition.
2 Secondary boundary condition or Natural boundary condition:
The boundary conditions which are in the differential form of field variables
is known as
secondary boundary condition.
 where, A >Area of the bar element
E Young's modulus of the bar element.
Length of the bar element
16 State the properties of a sifness matre
LAma University, Jan 2006
The properties of a stifiness matrix [ K ] are:
1. tis
2. The
symmetric matrix.
of elements in any column must be
sum
equal to zero.
3. It is an unstable element. So, the determinant is
equal to zero.
17. Write down the general finte element
equation.
General finite element equation is,
F) [K]{«)
where, {F >Force vector [Column matrix].
[K] Stiffiness matrix [Row matrix]
{u} > Degrees of freedom [Column matrix).
18. Write down the finite element
equation for dimensional two noded bar element.
one

The finite element equation for one dimensional two noded bar element is,

19. What is truss?

A truss is defined
structure, made up of several bars, riveted or welded
as a
together.
20. State the assumptions are made while
finding the forces in a truss.
The following assumptions are made while the forces in
finding a truss.
(0 All the members are pin jointed.
(i) The truss is loaded only at the joints.
(ü) The self-weight of the members are neglected unless stated.
21. Write down the expression of stiffness matrirfor atruss element.
Im

Stiffness matrix, [K] m-m -m

-
=
-

? Im 2
- Im -m2 Im m
where, A Area
E Young's modulus
Lengthof the element
, mDirection cosines
 iction
& State the three phases offinite element method
L.145
The three phases are: 1. Preprocessing
2. Analysis
3. Postprocessing
9. What is structural and non-structural problems ?
Structural problems: In structural problems,
displacement at cach nodal point is
obtained. By using these displacement solutions, stress and strain in cach element can be
calculated.
Nom-structural problemIS: In non-structural problems, temperatures or tfuid pressurc a
cach nodal point is obtained. By using these values,
properties such as heat flow, fluid
tow, elc, for each element can be calculated.
10 What are the methods aregeneraly assoclated with the finite element analysis?
The following two methods are generally associated with the finite element
analysis.
They are:

Force method.
() Displacement or stiffiess method.
I1.
Explain force method and si'fness method?
In force method, internal forces are considered as the unknowns of the problem. In
displacement or stiffness method, displacements of the nodes are considered as the
unknowns of the problem. Among them two approaches, displac ement method is
desirable.
12 Phy polymomial type of interpolation functions are mostly used in FEM?
The polynomial ype of interpolation functions are mostly used due to the following
reasons:
I. It is easy to formulate and computerize the fmite element equations.
2. i s easy to perform differentiation or integration.
3. The accuracy of the resuts can be improved by increasing order of the
the
polynomia.
B. Name the variational methods.
1. Ritz method.
2. Rayleigh-Ritz method.
14. Name the weighted residual iethods.
1. Point collocation method.
2. Subdomain collocation method.
14 ure DieMeR Analyss

1.27. TWO MARK QUESTIONS&ANSWERS

. State the methods of Engineering analys
There are three methods of Engineering analysis. They are:
1. Experimental methods.
2. Analytical methods

3. Numerical methods or approximate mecthods.

2. What is meant by finite element?
A small unit having definite shape of geometry and nodes is called finite element.
What s meant by finite element anabsis?
Finite clement method is a numerical method for solving problems of Engineering and
Mathematical physies.
In the finite element method, instead of soving the problem for the entire body in one
operation. we formulate the cquations for cach finite oement and combine them to
obtain the solution of the whole body.
4.Give exanples for the finite elememt.
L. One dinmensional elemens o) Truss elements.
(6) Bar, Beam clements.

2 Two dimensional elements: la) Triangular elements.

(6) Rectangular clements.
3. Three tinmensional elements: (a) Tetrahedral elements.
(6) Hexahedral elements.

What is meant by node orjoint?

Each kind of finite clement has a specific structural shape and is interconnected with the
adjacent elements by nodal points or nodes. At the nodes, degrees of freedom are
located. The forces will act only at nodes and not at any other place in the element
What is the basis offinie element method?
Discretization is the basis of finite element method. The at of subdividing a structure
into a convenient number of analler components is known as discretization.
What are the types of boundary conditos?
There are two types of boundary conditions. They are:

1.Primary boundary condition.

2. Secondary boundary condition.
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TnfrodhictiOn 1.147
23. Phat are h' and p' versions offinite edement method?
IM.E Anna university, Dec. 20031
h versions and p versions are used to improve the accuracy of the finite element
method.
In * versions, the order of polynomial approximation for all elements is kept constant
and the number of elements are increased.
In 'p' version, the number of elements are maintained constant and the order of
polynomial approximation of element is increased.
24 During discretizatiom, mention the places where it is necessary to place a node?

M.U, April 2000

The followings places are necessary to placea node during discretization
process
) Concentrated load acting point.
() Cross-section changing point.
(i) Different material interjunction point.
(iv) Sudden change in load point.
25. What is the difference between static and dynamic analysis? M.U, April 2000
Static analysis: The solution of the problem does not vary wth time is known as static
analysis.
Example: Stress analysis on a beam.
Dynamic analysis: The solution of the problem varies with time is known as dynamic
analysis.
Example: Vibration analysis problems,
26. Name any four PEA sofiwares IM.U, April 98)
I. ANSYS 2. NASTRAN.
3. COSMOs. 4. NISA.
27. Diferentiate between global and local aes
Local axes are established in an element. Since it is in the element level, they change
with the change in orientation of the element. The direction differs from element to
element.
Global axes are defined for the entire system. They are same in direction for all the
elements even though the elements are differently oriented.
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1.148 Finite Element Analysis
28 Distinguish beweem potential energEB function and polential energy functiona
If a system has finite number of degrees of freedom (q and g), then the potential
energy is expressed as,

92and g3)
It is known as function.
Ifa system has infinite degrees of freedom, then the potential energy is expressed as,

t is known as functiona.

29. What do you mean by constitutive law? Dec 2007. Anna Unversity B.E (Mech)]
For a fimite element, the stress-strain relations are expressed as folows:

ol [DJ[e .(1
whereG Stress
el Strain
[D] = Stress-Strain relationship matrix or

Constitutive matri.

This equation is known as constitutrve law.

1.28. REVIEW QUESTIONS

1. List and briefiy describe the general steps of the finite clement method.
2. Explain the following: (0 Natural discretization.
(n Antificial discretization.
3. Explain the discretization process.
4. Explain the following: ) Variational approach.
() Weighted residual methods
5. List the advantages, disadvantages and applications of FEM.
6. Use the Rayleigh-Ritz method to find the displacement of the midpoint of the rod shown
in Fig

usugur=0

Body lorce per unt valume. pg