ABSTRACT
The finite element method (FEM), or finite element analysis (FEA), is based on the idea of building a complicated object with simple blocks, or, dividing a complicated object into smaller and manageable pieces. The FEM can be applied in solving the mathematical models of many engineering problems, from stress analysis of truss and frame structures or complicated machines, to dynamic responses of automobiles, trains, or airplanes under different mechanical, thermal, or electromagnetic loading. This chapter introduces the concepts and procedures that are very simple and yet very important for studying the finite element analyses of other problems. It presents the use of ANSYS Workbench in a step-by-step fashion in the context of real-world problem solving that may involve different modeling concepts or different physics. The chapter gives a brief overview of the different elements in the ANSYS Workbench simulation environment or the graphical-user interface (GUI).
