EFESTS: Educational finite element software for truss structure – Part 3: Geometrically nonlinear static analysis

Abstract

This article covers the modeling, formulation, solution, and software development of the geometrically nonlinear static finite element method of truss structure. Firstly, we summarize the total Lagrange bar elment formulation, which includes the tangent stiffness matrix and the internal force vector. Secondly, static class diagrams and dynamic sequence diagrams assist students in designing software architecture. Thirdly, the analytical example of the 2-bar truss structure and the numerical example of the 10-bar truss structure are presented to promote students' understanding of geometrically nonlinear finite element theory and application. Finally, the developed software is free for educational research and can be downloaded from the website: http://mach.jlu. edu.cn/hb_images/xygk/xssz_sz_js.php?id¼395.

Comparison of gradient and nongradient algorithms in the structural optimization course

“…Additionally, the EFESTS software is free for educational research, which can be downloaded from the corresponding author's ResearchGate website: https://www.research gate.net/profile/Wenjie_Zuo. The linear static finite element includes three main classes: BarElement, Domain, and Solver, which were discussed in Zuo et al 22,23…”

“…The linear static finite element includes three main classes: BarElement , Domain , and Solver , which were discussed in Zuo et al. 22,23…”

Julia Language Implementation of the Finite Element Method for Linear Instability of Plane Frames: An Efficient Alternative for Structural Analysis

“…The construction of the program is fully discussed in section 2.3, with the routine writing paradigm being emphasized. For examples of structuring the functionality of finite element codes for flat trusses, works such as (Zuo, Bai and Cheng, 2014) and (Zuo, Huang and Cheng, 2017) can demonstrate forms of traditional computational implementation in FEM. The present work chose to show the algorithms in tables so that the line-by-line explanation could be maintained.…”

An effective teaching strategy for engineering mechanics to develop structural optimization modeling skills of undergraduates

“…Existing studies [8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16] generally focus on developing the course of mechanics modeling. Jensen 9 proposed a project to enhance mechanics education by incorporating experiments using photo-elastic stress analysis and finite element analysis within the existing curricula.…”

“…Zuo et al 13,14 introduced a complete guide from the linear static finite element theory to the software development of the educational finite element software for truss structure, and it further extended to the problem of geometrical nonlinearity. 15 The proposed software can enhance the engineering abilities of students to a great extent. Li and Wang 16 put forward a teaching method in theory mechanics for helping students understand the mechanism motion process by using dynamic simulation technology of the mechanism.…”