CivE 665
Introduction to the Finite Element Method
Description
This course introduces the fundamental formulations and practical applications of the finite element method (FEM) to complex problems in continuum mechanics. With a specific focus on civil engineering applications, students will explore the theoretical underpinnings and numerical implementation required to solve advanced boundary value problems.The curriculum bridges theory and practice, spanning topics in solid mechanics (including structural elasticity, plasticity, and stress analysis) and soil mechanics (covering consolidation, seepage, and soil-structure interaction). Students will gain hands-on experience using modern computational tools to model, simulate, and analyze engineering materials and systems under various loading conditions.
Learning Outcomes
**Module 1:Theory of FEM (1D Problems)**- Recognize that FEM is a numerical method for solving differential equations.
- Recall the general procedure for solving 1D differential equations.
- Express a 1D differential equation in its weak form.
- Solve simple 1D problems globally using the Ritz/Galerkin method and compare with analytical solutions.
- Derive the element wise stiffness matrix for simple 1D problems using the Ritz/Galerkin method.
- Implement 1D FEM analysis and compare with the analytical and approximate global solution.
**Module 2: Planar FEM Applications (Plane Beams and 2D Elasticity)**
- Recall the general procedure for solving linear elasticity problems.
- Identify the different forms of 2D elements (shape and order) and their relative strengths and weaknesses.
- Evaluate integrals numerically using Gauss Integration.
- Solve simple 2D planar problems.
**Module 3: Applications with ABAQUS**
- Extend 1D and 2D FEM procedure to more complex 3D problems using ABAQUS.
| Lecture | Seminar | Lab | Credits | Total AU |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 0/1 | 0/1 | 3 | 37.8 |
| M % | NS % | CS % | ES % | ED % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
None defined
None defined
Undergraduate Program(s)
Sections & Respective Instructors
| B1 - 2026/2027 - Winter - Clayton Pettit |
| B1 - 2025/2026 - Winter - Mostafa Mohamed |
| B1 - 2024/2025 - Winter - Saher Attia |
| B1 - 2023/2024 - Winter - Mostafa Mohamed |
| B1 - 2022/2023 - Winter - Clayton Pettit |
| B1 - 2020/2021 - Winter - Clayton Pettit & Samer Adeeb |