Finite Element Method Report

Deflection and wire using FEM

Student ID: 2393203

Rizwan Javed
I. Abstract
This report employs MATLAB to analyze the deflection characteristics of a wire subjected to specific
loading conditions. It utilizes both an exact solution approach and the finite element method to address
the governing differential equation governing the wire's deflection. The exact solution serves as a
benchmark for comparison, while the finite element method offers a numerical approximation, varying
element spacings. Findings suggest that with decreasing element spacing, finite element solutions
gradually approach the exact solution, albeit with increased computational demands. The investigation
reveals a direct correlation between tension and deflection, illustrating the solution's sensitivity to
tension fluctuations. This study underscores MATLAB's efficacy in resolving intricate structural issues and
emphasizes the adaptability of the finite element method in approximating structural responses. It
presents valuable insights for engineering design and analysis.

II. Introduction
1. Investigation of Deflection Behavior in Pre-Tensioned Wire:

The MATLAB script, denoted as wire.m, functions as a tool for analyzing the deflection characteristics in a
pre-tensioned wire subjected to varying distributed loads, employing the finite element method. The
script initiates by configuring input parameters, encompassing mesh details and nodal coordinates.
Following this, the stiffness matrix is formulated, considering the impact of tension and element
dimensions. Boundary constraints are imposed to represent fixed nodes and specified displacements.
Eventually, the equation system is resolved using Gauss elimination, resulting in deflection data. The
generated output is stored and graphically represented to depict the deflection pattern across the wire's
span.

2. Solving Second-Order Linear ODEs and Heat Transfer Simulation:

 The subsequent MATLAB script, identified as ode2.m, addresses the resolution of second-order linear
ordinary differential equations and its application in simulating heat transfer phenomena within a water
conduit. Input parameters are specified to define the mesh and quadrature points necessary for
numerical integration. The stiffness matrix is then initialized and computed element-wise, taking into
account the material properties of the pipe and boundary conditions. Upon applying boundary
constraints, the equation system is solved, yielding temperature distributions along the length of the
pipe. Resultant data is stored and graphically represented to illustrate temperature variations along the
axial direction of the pipe.

III. Methodology
1. Analytical Framework for Wire Deflection Analysis:
This process entails establishing a comprehensive analytical framework centered on the Finite Element
Method (FEM) for the analysis of wire deflection behavior. It involves defining the key parameters,
equations, and methodologies required to conduct a thorough investigation into wire deflection
phenomena.

 Fundamentals of Elemental Stiffness Matrix Computation:

This step involves breaking down the wire structure into smaller finite elements and computing the
stiffness matrix for each element. It encompasses the application of fundamental principles of finite
element analysis and solid mechanics to derive elemental stiffness matrices accurately, considering the
relationship between nodal displacements and applied loads.

 Development of Computational Models:

Here, numerical models are developed to simulate the behavior of the wire under various loading
conditions. This includes discretizing the wire structure into finite elements, establishing appropriate
boundary conditions, and defining the mesh configuration required for accurate simulation.

 Techniques for Mesh Discretization:

Mesh generation techniques are employed to discretize the wire structure into smaller finite
components. This process involves dividing the wire shape into a mesh of interconnected nodes and
elements to approximate the solution accurately. Various methods such as structured and unstructured
meshing may be utilized depending on the complexity of the wire geometry.

 Incorporation of Structural Constraints:

Boundary conditions are integrated into the numerical model to represent constraints imposed on the
wire structure. This step involves defining fixed points, prescribed displacements, and other constraints
that influence the behavior of the wire under analysis.

 Imposing External Forces:

External loads are applied to the wire structure to simulate real-world scenarios. This step includes the
application of various loading conditions such as compressive, tensile, and dynamic loading induced by
vibrations, which affect the deflection behavior of the wire.

 Finite Element Method Implementation:

The Finite Element Method (FEM) is employed to solve the system of equations representing the wire
structure. This involves constructing the global stiffness matrix from elemental stiffness matrices,
incorporating boundary conditions, and employing numerical techniques such as matrix inversion or
iterative solvers to determine nodal displacements.

 Analysis and Visualization Strategies:

Post-processing techniques are utilized to analyze and visualize the results obtained from the simulation.
This includes plotting deflection profiles, stress distributions, and other pertinent metrics to evaluate the
structural behavior of the wire under diverse loading conditions and gain insights into its deflection
characteristics.

2. Numerical Solution of Second-Order Linear ODEs and Heat Transfer Analysis

 Theory:

In the process of solving second-order linear ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and conducting heat
transfer analysis, several key steps are undertaken.

 Input Data Acquisition:

Initially, the mesh data (stored in MESH.txt) containing vital information regarding nodal coordinates,
boundary conditions, and heat sources is loaded. Additionally, quadrature data (QUAD.txt) specifying
quadrature points and associated weights for numerical integration is loaded.

 Initialization:

Variables are initialized to hold nodal coordinates, boundary conditions, temperatures, and heat sources.
Necessary arrays and matrices are set up to facilitate computation.

 Formation of Stiffness Matrix and RHS:

The stiffness matrix and right-hand side (RHS) vector are initialized. A systematic iteration over elements
is conducted to compute element-wise contributions to the stiffness matrix and the RHS vector.
Numerical integration, utilizing Gaussian quadrature, accurately evaluates integrals over each element.

 Boundary Conditions:

Boundary conditions are adjusted by modifying the stiffness matrix and RHS vector to ensure
compliance. Appropriate boundary conditions, such as fixed temperature or prescribed heat flux, are
applied to reflect real-world constraints.

 Equation Solver:

A suitable equation solver algorithm, such as the Gauss elimination method, is employed to solve the
system of equations derived from the problem setup. This results in obtaining nodal temperatures
corresponding to the heat transfer analysis.

 Output Data Processing:

Nodal coordinates and computed temperatures are saved into output files for further analysis.
Additionally, a temperature profile along the pipe's length is plotted to visualize the distribution of heat
within the system.
IV. Results:
1- Deflections in Pretensioned Wire:

 Case1:
 Case2:
 Case3:
 Exact Solution:
2- Second-Order Linear ODEs and Heat Transfer Application:
V. Conclusion
In summary, this endeavor highlights the adaptable nature of the finite element method (FEM) in
conjunction with MATLAB, addressing two distinct yet pivotal engineering challenges. Through the
utilization of rigorous mathematical formulations and computational methodologies, we have effectively
scrutinized the deflection behaviors of a pretensioned wire subjected to variable distributed loading and
explored heat transfer phenomena within a water pipe.

By meticulously implementing our methodology, encompassing data acquisition, initialization, matrix

formulation, management of boundary conditions, equation resolution, and output processing, we have
showcased the efficacy of FEM in furnishing insightful resolutions to intricate engineering quandaries.
Leveraging MATLAB's computational prowess has streamlined the analysis and visualization of outcomes,
empowering engineers to make informed decisions and refine designs.

Ultimately, this project underscores the significance of numerical methods and computational aids in
contemporary engineering practices. Through the amalgamation of FEM and MATLAB, engineers can
confront a spectrum of challenges with assurance, fostering the creation of resilient and pioneering
solutions spanning diverse engineering domains.