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Introduction to Finite Element Analysis
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:17
Abstract
We discuss numerical methods for solving initial boundary value problems in solid mechanics (static/dynamic elastic problems of solids and structures, thermal problems). Focus is on finite differences and on the finite element method, its theoretical foundation, the choices made when using it, its application for solving problems of engineering interest, and the interpretation of results.
Objective
By the end of this course, students will be able to apply the computational methods of finite differences (FDs) and finite elements (FEs) to analyze and solve mechanical and thermal engineering problems with a focus on elastic solids and structures. Specifically, students will be able to (1) solve initial boundary value problems by finite differences, (2) solve mechanical boundary value problems and initial boundary value problems by finite elements, and (3) create numerical code that implements finite difference and finite element techniques.
Content
1. Introduction, direct and indirect numerical methods. 2. Finite differences, stability analysis. 3. Variational methods. 4. Finite element method. 5. Structural elements (bars and beams). 6. 2D and 3D solid elements (isoparametric and simplicial elements), numerical quadrature. 7. Assembly, solvers, finite element technology. 8. Dynamics, vibrations. 9. Selected topics in finite element analysis.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Lecture notes will be provided. Students are encouraged to take their own notes during class.
Literature
No textbook required; relevant reference material will be suggested.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , DR , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 120 minutes
- Aids
- Four hand-written pages of notes/formula sheets (including those written on a tablet) are allowed during the exam (i.e., four single-sided or two double-sided sheets of paper); no further materials are allowed.
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Introduction to Finite Element Analysis |
|
4 h weekly |
Offered In
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Design, Mechanics and Manufacturing (Focus Coordinator: Prof. Dennis Kochmann To achieve the required 20 credit points for the Focus Specialization Design, Mechanics and Manufacturing, all of the courses listed can be selected. If required, one course from another focus specialization or from the electives of the ME Bachelor program can be selected. For recommended courses and further information, please visit the MAVT website for Focus Specialization ( ).)
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Electives (In the ‘electives’ subcategory, at least two course units must be successfully completed.)
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Core Courses (The Core Courses in the Master’s program Mechanical Engineering listed below are indicative and include courses designed by the Department at the Master's level. With the approval of the tutor, students may also select Master's-level courses offered by other departments at ETH. These courses will be marked as non-regular in the LAG, but their categorization as Core Courses is possible if included in the approved LAG.)
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Electives (In the ‘electives’ subcategory, at least two course units must be successfully completed. All courses listed as core courses (not electives) for one of the following ETH MSc programmes, MSc Statistics, MSc Physics, MSc Computer Science, MSc (Applied) Mathematics, MSc Neural Systems and Computation, MSc Robotics, Systems, and Control, MSc Data Science, MSc Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, can be taken as an elective course in the MSc CSE without prior permission.)
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Doctorate Materials Science (Further information at: )
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