Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

1984

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Stevens, Karl K.

Abstract

The finite element method is widely used in many areas of engineering and applied science, including structures, fluids, heat transfer, and electromagnetism. Several commercial programs exist which have extensive capabilites in these areas, but they usually require special training and mainframe computers to use. This creates a series of problems in an engineering organization because of the inefficiencies of timeshared computer systems and remote processing. These problems result in poor productivity of the analyst. This work demonstrates the feasibility of using a desktop microcomputer to perform finite element structural analysis. A program is developed which is capable of solving two-dimensional linear static problems using truss, beam and plane stress elements. The program includes extensive pre- and post-processing capabilities and graphic displays. It allows problems with up to 500 degrees-of-freedom to be solved within a few hours and requires only about one-half hour of instruction to use. The program theory, a user's manual, and verification problems are presented.

Extent

133 p.

Comments

College of Engineering and Computer Science|Thesis (M.S.E.)--Florida Atlantic University, 1984.|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|College of Engineering and Computer Science

Identifier

FADT14225

Format

pdf

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