Introduction to Finite Elements in Engineering

This book provides an integrated approach to finite element methodologies. The development of finite element theory is combined with examples and exercises involving engineering applications. The steps used in the development of the theory are implemented in complete, self-contained computer programs. While the strategy and philosophy of the previous editions has been retained, the Third Edition has been updated and improved to include new material on additional topics. Chapter topics cover fundamental concepts, matrix algebra and gaussian elimination, one-dimensional problems, trusses, two-dimensional problems using constant strain triangles, axisymmetric solids subjected to axisymmetric loading, two-dimensional isoparametric elements and numerical integration, beams and frames, three-dimensional problems in stress analysis, scalar field problems, dynamic considerations, and preprocessing and postprocessing. For practicing engineers as a valuable learning resource.

Tirupathi R. Chandrupatla is Professor and Chair of Mechanical Engineering at Rowan University, Glassboro, New Jersey. He received the B.S. degree from the Regional Engineering College, Warangal, which was affiliated with Osmania University, India. He received the M.S. degree in design and manufacturing from the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay. He started his career as a design engineer with Hindustan Machine Tools, Bangalore. He then taught in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at LLT, Bombay. He pursued his graduate studies in the Department of Aerospace Engineering and Engineering Mechanics at the University of Texas at Austin and received his Ph.D. in 1977. He subsequently taught at the University of Kentucky. Prior to joining Rowan, he was a Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Manufacturing Systems Engineering at GMI Engineering & Management Institute (formerly General Motors Institute), where he taught for 16 years.

Dr. Chandrupatla has broad research interests, which include finite element analysis, design, optimization, and manufacturing engineering. He has published widely in these areas and serves as a consultant to industry. Dr. Chandrupatla is a registered Professional Engineer and also a Certified Manufacturing Engineer. He is a member of ASEE, ASME, NSPE, SAE, and SME.

Ashok D. Belegundu is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at The Pennsylvania State University, University Park. He was on the faculty at GMI from 1982 through 1986. He received the Ph.D. degree in 1982 from the University of Iowa and the B.S. degree from the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras. He was awarded a fellowship to spend a summer in 1993 at the NASA Lewis Research Center. During 1994-1995, he obtained a grant from the UK Science and Engineering Research Council to spend his sabbatical leave at Cranfield University, Cranfield, UK.

Dr. Belegundu's teaching and research interests include linear, nonlinear, and dynamic finite elements and optimization. He has worked on several sponsored projects for government and industry. He is an associate editor of Mechanics of Structures and Machines. He is also a member of ASME and an Associate fellow of AIAA.