ABSTRACT
The finite element method is one of the most commonly used methods for calculation of the stresses and deflections of large truss and beam systems. The structural system is discretely divided into finite elements and each has its own basic equilibrium model. Each element model is defined and assembled into the larger global model that defines the system, and then the system is represented by simultaneous equations and solved by numerical methods. Hence, the nodal displacements are determined and the individual element forces are computed. The displacements can be translated into strains and the forces can be translated into stress values for each element.
