Boundary and Finite Elements: Theory and Problems

Since the development of the finite element method, engineering students have come to rely upon it almost exclusively. Consequently, they eventually leave school and enter the field with little or no experience in alternative methods of solving structural mechanics problems. As powerful and versatile as the finite element method is, a working knowledge of the various approximate methods not only gives structural engineers more options in their problem-solving efforts, it also imparts an understanding of the development and evolution of techniques that ultimately led to the finite element method.Focusing on the practical aspects of the techniques rather than delving deep into the mathematics, Boundary and Finite Elements Theory and Problems brings together the techniques most useful in solving structural mechanics problems, including various approximate methods, the finite element method, and the boundary element method. The author presents the material in a reader-friendly, question-and-answer format, filled with illustrations, exercises and fully worked examples.Thorough, accessible, and practical, Boundary and Finite Elements Theory and Problems is well suited as a text for engineering-oriented courses in approximate methods, the boundary element method, and the finite element method. It also serves as an outstanding reference for engineers working in structural mechanics.