Practical Applications of Finite Element Method

Some helpful hints and comments, which are based on 10 yr of experience with both users and finite element programs, are included along with two examples that illustrate some problems in modeling and that underline the user's responsibility for proper use of a program and adequate modeling. Many articles and books have dealt with the finite element theory or computational algorithms. For example, during the five-yr period between Oct. 1971 - Jan. 1977 over 40 papers relating to finite element analysis have appeared in the ASCE Journal of the Structural Division. Only a few papers or articles have dealt with the practical aspects of discretization and modeling, or the practical use of finite element programs for structural analysis. This paper contains guidelines relating to application of the finite element method.