Events

Introduction to Finite Element Analysis

Course Description: F.E.A. Introduction This is an introductory course that provides students with a basic understanding of the theory behind finite element analysis, along with hands-on laboratory sessions to provide insight into finite element idealization and solutions techniques.

Each 2.5 hours course consists of a lecture and laboratory session, with one student per computer. The course will be offered on six consecutive Tuesday evenings from 6:00pm - 8:30pm, beginning October 14th. Those who attend will receive Steven Lepi's book, "Practical Guide to Finite Elements" and also earn ASME credits. The cost of the course is *$995. (*See discount below)

Who should take this course?

• Practicing engineers, physicists, and other professionals interested in Finite Element Analysis.
  
• Newly graduated engineers and college level engineering professionals who were not exposed to Finite Element Analysis in their college or university curriculum.
  
• Engineering managers who desire a basic understanding of Finite Element Analysis theory and application

Instructor and Author: Steven Lepi

Steven Lepi earned his B.S.M.E. from Michigan Technical University and his M.S.M.E. from the University of Michigan. Mr. Lepi has applied and developed finite element methods while employed as a manufacturing research engineer for the Department of Energy, research scientist for the Department of Defense, senior technical specialist for the Ford Motor Company, and as Simulation Manager for a Seattle based transportation company.

Steven Lepi has taught mechanical vibration and currently teaches Finite Element Analysis. He has written his own finite element software for 3D heat transfer analysis, and has presented at international conferences. He is also author of "Practical Guide to Finite Elements."

Instructor: Steven Lepi
Where: 3303 Monte Villa Pkwy, Bothell, WA 98021, Suite 320
When: October 14th – November 18th
(6 consecutive Tuesday – 6:00pm – 8:30pm)
Any Questions: Contact cpham@altair.com

*Cost Discount 1: Registration before October 1st receives $100 discount.
*Cost Discount 2: Sign up with a friend, receive another $100 discount.

Finite Element Analysis Schedule:

Session one: Background Concepts

• What is FEA? Why use FEA?
  
• Closed-form solutions to analysis problems
  
• A piecewise approach
  
• Energy Method
  
• The Ritz method
  
• Stress-strain Basics
  
• The engineering analysis process
  
• Mechanical idealization
  
• Finite element procedures
  
• Simple finite element application

Session two: Basic Finite Element Theory in One-Dimensional Space

• FEA: modern application of the Ritz method
  
• FEA example: steering link
  
• Finite element stiffness matrix
  
• FEA example: tapered shaft
  
• Combining element stiffness matrices
  
• Increasing finite element computational efficiency
  
• Lab: Steering link

Session three: Basic Line and Surface Elements

• Finite element stress calculations
  
• General formula for finite element stiffness
  
• General formula applied: Truss element in 2-dimension space and strain elements
  
• Finite element errors
  
• Lab: Pinned support

Session four: More Line and Surface Elements

• Review of simple elements
  
• Axisymmetric elements
  
• Structural elements: 2-node line element for beam applications, and 3-node surface element for plate applications
  
• Application review
  
• Lab: Radio mounting bracket

Session five: Volume Elements and Case Study

• Solid Elements
  
• Class Project: Wiper Motor Casting
  
• Lab: Nonuniform Shaft

Session six: Normal Modes of a Motor Bracket

• Normal modes analysis
  
• Case Study: Normal modes Analysis of a Fuel Sender Flange
  
• Lab: Normal modes of a Motor Bracket