224-0221 – Finite Element Method (MeKP)

Course objectives: - definition of basic principles and relationships underlying mathematical theory of elasticity and plasticity - formulation of basic principles of finite element method -definitions of different types of finite element, their analysis and comparison - build the stiffness matrix, analysis of properties of stiffness matrix - formulation of the basic conditions of solvability of equation system, selection of appropriate methods to solve the fundamental system of equations, comparing them - creation of a separate numerical model based on finite element method using available software systems - Discussion of the results of numerical models, the analysis of their explanatory power and sensitivity to input data

The content of the course are the principles and capabilities of the utilization of finite elements method for the solution of various engineering problems, with special emphasis on the role of geotechnical. Students will learn the theoretical basis of this numerical method and the principle of discretization of given area, the various types of finite elements for application in one-dimensional, planar and spatial tasks. The aim is also to familiarize students with the practical use of this method in solving problems in geotechnical engineering and underground construction (the stability of slopes, embankments, spoil banks, the role of the stability of underground works (tunnels, etc.)) through a specialized geotechnical software (Plaxis, 3D Tunnel , Phases, etc.).

Potts, D. Zdravkovic, L. Finite element analysis in geotechnical engineering. Telford, 1999. ISBN 0 72772753 2.

Gioda, Z.: Modeling in Geomechanics. Wiley 2000