Title: Finite element training before real analysis: A personal view

Authors: John Robinson

Addresses: Robinson FEM Institute; University of Exeter, UK; Robinson and Associates, Great Bidlake Manor, Bridestowe, Okehampton, Devon, EX20 4NT, UK

Abstract: In finite element structural analysis, we have the dilemma that an engineer can solve a very complex problem using multi-million dollar software on high-technology hardware with beautifully coloured pictures of the results, without knowing the fundamentals of the finite element method. In this paper the author presents a personal view of how this dilemma should be resolved. His solution emphasises the crucial importance of standards, quality assurance, reliability and, above all, education and training in finite element analysis.

Keywords: education; training; finite element analysis; FEA; quality assurance; QA; reliability; safety; standards; finite element method; FEM; structural analysis.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCAT.1994.062513

International Journal of Computer Applications in Technology, 1994 Vol.7 No.3/4/5/6, pp.118 - 124

Published online: 09 Jun 2014 *

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