FINITE ELEMENT METHODS.

Abstract

An algebraic approximation of the differential equations of the continuous field theory, which are subject to boundary conditions, are given in terms of finite element equations. They can be derived on the basis of the principle of virtual work, supplemented by a principle of virtual heat. A distinction is made between spatial finite elements for problems of flow, and material finite elements for problems of deformation. Aspects of stability of structures and of kinematic analysis of mechanisms are considered in terms of finite element concepts.