YEAR:

III
COURSE CODE: CSE
315
UNITS: 3

SEMESTER:
I
COURSE NAME: INTRODUCTION TO THE FINITE
ELEMENT METHOD
LECTURER: Dr. Omondi

COURSE OUTLINE
1. Course Purpose
The purpose of this course is to give an introduction to the basic concepts of the
Finite Element Method as a numerical method for analyzing structures.
2. Course Objectives
The objectives of this course are to:
[1] Introduce students to the basic concepts of finite element method;
[2] Demonstrate to students the standard procedures of the finite element
method;
[3] Guide students on the application of finite element method for analysing
one-dimensional and two-dimensional systems;
[4] Introduce students to the basics of computer software analysis;
[5] Guide students on how to interpret and validate results from finite element
method.
3. Expected Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:
[1] Follow the standard procedures of the finite element method;
[2] Apply the finite element method in analyzing a variety of bars, beams,
trusses and frame structures;
[3] Explain the principle of the finite element method for two-dimensional
problems;
[4] Apply the finite element method in analyzing a variety of two-dimensional
problems;
[5] Interpret and validate the computed results.
4. Course Content
General Introduction to Finite Element Method (FEM): Background of FEM;
Fundamental concept of FEM; Basic steps in the FEM; Common sources of errors
in FEM; Advantages of FEM. Demonstration of FEM using bar type
structures: Descretization; The concept of nodes, elements and nodal forces.
Stiffness matrix; Derivation of element stiffness matrices, Assemblage of global
stiffness matrix for the structural system from the individual element stiffness
matrices, Apply different boundary conditions. Applications of finite element
method: Applications to beams; Applications to planar trusses; Applications to
portals and frames. Introduction to the Finite Element Method for two
dimensional continua.
Laboratory Work: Execution of assignments by applying a student edition
computer programme (Matlab) for two dimensional bar-type structures.

5. Teaching and Learning Methods:

Lectures
Tutorials
Computer Laboratory work
6. Teaching Materials and Aids:
Lecture handouts
Text books
Scientific calculators
Computers and internet
Current F.E.M. Software
Multimedia technology and equipment
7. Course Assessment:
Continuous Assessment and Tests
End of semester Examination

30%
70%

8. Course References/Reference Texts:

Hutton D, 2004, Fundamentals of Finite Element Analysis, McGraw Hill, 1 st ed.
Logan D, 2007, A First Course In The Finite Element Method, Thomson Learning,
4th ed.
Course Further Readings:
1. Zienkiewicz O, Taylor R, 2000, The Finite Element Method, Butterworth
Heinemann, Vol 1&2.
2. Onate E, 2009, Structural Analysis with the Finite Element Method,
Springer, Vol.1.