To pass the course both the exam and the project assignment should be approved. The exam is graded 0-60p and the project assignment report is graded on the scale 0 to 5 points. The points obtained from the project report can be used as a bonus that can be added to the points on the first exam (May/June).

The finite element method (FEM) is a numerical method able to solve arbitrary differential equations, i.e. boundary value problems. The method is today the most powerful numerical method within solid mechanics; this since arbitrary geometries and complex material models can be treated. Within the modern industry the finite  element method is the key factor in many construction phases. Solid mechanics is a fundamental engineering topic, relevant for all type of construction. The emphasis in the course in placed on the understanding of the fundamental principles of solid mechanics and the FEM, as well as numerical issues with the FEM. The course allows the participant to implement its own finite element program and thereby gain understanding of the method in great detail. Moreover, the course builds the corner stones the the Advanced Courses Computational InelasticityLinks to an external site. FHLN05 and Non-Linear Finite Element AnalysisLinks to an external site." FHLN20 and Structural OptimizationLinks to an external site., FHLN01

The course consists of a series of lectures starting with the so-called direct method where no mathematical reformulation is needed. After this introduction different field problems defined by differential equations are considered. To establish the finite element formulation the equivalent weak formulation will be introduced where use of weighted residual methods are made, special emphasis is placed on the Galerkin method. This treatment will lead to the FE-formulation. In this process of establishing the FE-formulation, both the mathematical treatment of the equations as well as the different key issues/approximations (isoparametric mapping, elements choices etc.) are discussed in detail.

A series of lectures within the course are dedicated to an introducing to solid mechanics. Here, the fundamental quantities of stress and strain is defined along with the concepts of elasticity and plasticity. The fundamental concepts are then applied to torsion of shafts with circular cross-sections and bending of beam.

In the project you should solve a structural problem using the finite element method. The project  should be presented in a written report, and the report is graded with respect to the technical contents. The structural and linguistic qualities of the presentations may also have an influence on the final grade --- positive or negative. The project work is carried through in groups of two students.