finite element method (example)?

Question

I need a simple example of how to use this method, just to understand how it works.
Example with ODE would be great, anyone know such
sites or something? Thanks!

Answer 1

The finite element method is much more complicated than you think. It's possible however to give simple examples with the finite difference method.

The basic idea in the finite difference method is to convert the differential equations into difference equations.
e.g.
d^2 y /dx^2 = [y(n+1) - 2y(n) + y(n-1)] / Δx^2
Then you solve for y at each of hte node points.

Answer 2

This method is a way of evaluating stresses in a beam or any discrete object.

This method uses hundreds or even thousands or even millions of tiny linear lines to closely approximate the shape of an object. Than the stresses of each of those discretized lines (elements) are calculated and added using the law of superposition.

It is very hard to do these calculations by hand unless you are doing them for very simple structures. Most CAD systems use this method for calculating forces, stresses, and displacements, and you can increase the accuracy of these results by increasing the degree of polynomial you use to define your object.

Answer 3

Hi. This should help http://www.answers.com/topic/finite-element-method?cat=technology Good luck!