What is the definition for finite element analysis?
Finite element is based on the finite difference concept, that is that adjacent points cannot have a massively different property without some of that property “ozzing” out from point to adjacent point. In the case of finite elements, the points are replaced by definite elements, having dimensions and physical properties, like Young modulus, thickness, and so on. Then boundary conditions are imposed (external loads, usually) and the stress and strain is allowed to diffuse through the simulated mesh until the computer program reaches a point of equilibrium. The load that exists then in each element is supposed to be representative of the stress and strain that a corresponding physical object of the same dimensions would be subjected to, under real conditions. This method is used extensively in mechanical design, to determine area of stress concentration, so that the final product will be “beefed up” where needed, and made lighter where the load is smaller.
