The finite element method using MATLAB. Incl. 1 CD-ROM. (Q2735636)

This book presents the finite element method in structural dynamics and in associated computations with the MATLAB software package.NEWLINENEWLINENEWLINEChapter one is an introduction to MATLAB. Chapter two presents methods for finding approximate solutions to ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using continuous functions, piecewise continuous functions, and then the finite element approximations (Galerkin, Rayleigh-Ritz). Chapter three presents MATLAB programs for the solution of two-point boundary value problems for second-order ODEs using finite elements, and chapter four is devoted to modelling using springs. Chapter five shifts the focus to partial differential equations (boundary value or initial value problems), and several sample MATLAB programs are added for the computation of solutions (Laplace and Poisson equations). Chapter six introduces isoparametric elements with Gauss-Legendre quadratures (a numerical integration scheme), and a MATLAB example illustrates the method for Laplace equation. Chapter seven is devoted to truss structures, while chapter eight handles beam and frame structures in several formulations. Chapter nine details the solution to an elasticity problem using finite elements (residual method, energy method), chapter ten studies plates and shells, and chapter eleven considers control problems (stability, stabilization, controllability, optimal control, LQR problems) mainly in finite-dimensional context. Chapter twelve has been added to the second edition [for the first ed. see the authors, The finite element method using MATLAB. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press. 544 p. (1996)] and deals with special topics (cracks, thermal effects, buckling, nonlinearity).NEWLINENEWLINENEWLINEOne finds 75 references, a dictionary of MATLAB function files, information on mesh generation, and an index. Most chapters end with MATLAB applications and with problems. A diskette containing all the subroutines and example problems is included. This book will be of interest to students and engineers in the field of structural dynamics and in the associated computations.