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Finite Element Analysis Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a method used predominantly in cases where it is hard to predict the behavior of engineering systems using conventional methodology. If it is impossible, or extremely difficult, to create a model based on physical principles, then the next easiest way to tackle it is by conducting experiments, creating graphs from the data and curve-fitting those to get equations that can be used to predict the behavior of the system (empirical equations). A third alternative, or, in some cases, the only possible solution, is to use FEA.
The
basic concept of FEA has its roots in a field called ‘numerical
methods.’ As shown in the animation, the concept is to divide a surface
into many tiny elements, of which the size and location relative to each
other are known, and then, starting from the boundary values, to move
through all the elements and calculate the properties at any given point
in the surface. This is best implemented using Linear Algebra
principles, whereby a large matrix (in some cases 10,000 x 10,000
elements big) is calculated using the location, sizes and parameters of
the elements and can then be used in a simpler matrix equation to solve
for the unknown variables. |
