Matrix Structural Analysis and Introduction to Finite-Element Methods

This course presents the typically decoupled fields of Matrix Structural Analysis (MSA) and Finite Element Methods (FEM) in a cohesive framework. The first half of the semester is devoted to the following MSA topics: derivation of truss, beam, frame, and hinge elements; assembly and partitioning of the global stiffness matrix; and equivalent nodal loads. The second half of the semester covers the following FEM topics: numerical approximation methods, strong and weak forms of boundary value problems, steady-state heat conduction, and linear-elasticity for membranes, plates, and shells. MATLAB is used for coding assignments.