Do Seismic Analysis Using Finite Elements


Book Description

This book aims to provide practical guidance on the application of FEA to the seismic analysis of structures and equipment, and to inform the reader generally about seismic analysis. The intended audience is the practicing engineer (and to a lesser degree engineering managers). It is assumed that the reader has some understanding and experience of seismic engineering and FEA. Examples of actual applications of FEA to safety critical structures and plant are used to illustrate some of the techniques and guidelines given within this document. There is much literature on the subject of FEA, including other NAFEMS publications, and there is an abundance of literature on the subject of seismic engineering. In particular, the reader is referred to ASCE 4-98 [Ref 1], and its successor document ASCE/SEI 43-05 [Ref 2]. Although geared to seismic analysis of safety related nuclear structures, this publication offers good practical guidance that is generally applicable to seismic analysis.




The Scaled Boundary Finite Element Method


Book Description

An informative look at the theory, computer implementation, and application of the scaled boundary finite element method This reliable resource, complete with MATLAB, is an easy-to-understand introduction to the fundamental principles of the scaled boundary finite element method. It establishes the theory of the scaled boundary finite element method systematically as a general numerical procedure, providing the reader with a sound knowledge to expand the applications of this method to a broader scope. The book also presents the applications of the scaled boundary finite element to illustrate its salient features and potentials. The Scaled Boundary Finite Element Method: Introduction to Theory and Implementation covers the static and dynamic stress analysis of solids in two and three dimensions. The relevant concepts, theory and modelling issues of the scaled boundary finite element method are discussed and the unique features of the method are highlighted. The applications in computational fracture mechanics are detailed with numerical examples. A unified mesh generation procedure based on quadtree/octree algorithm is described. It also presents examples of fully automatic stress analysis of geometric models in NURBS, STL and digital images. Written in lucid and easy to understand language by the co-inventor of the scaled boundary element method Provides MATLAB as an integral part of the book with the code cross-referenced in the text and the use of the code illustrated by examples Presents new developments in the scaled boundary finite element method with illustrative examples so that readers can appreciate the significant features and potentials of this novel method—especially in emerging technologies such as 3D printing, virtual reality, and digital image-based analysis The Scaled Boundary Finite Element Method: Introduction to Theory and Implementation is an ideal book for researchers, software developers, numerical analysts, and postgraduate students in many fields of engineering and science.




Dam Engineering


Book Description

Dams are critical structures in the sense that damage or breach of even a small dam may cause an unacceptable loss of life and property. Therefore, the safety of dams over the intended lifespan is of utmost importance for unrestricted operation. The basic prerequisites for any safe and successful operation of a dam include state-of-the-art design, experimental investigations of the construction material and properties of the foundation, a refined theoretical analysis of relevant load cases, and high-quality construction. In the past decades, many advancements have been achieved in both construction technologies and design, including those for the prediction of the long-term behavior of dams under various loading conditions. As such, this book examines these advancements with respect to the design, construction, and performance of earth, rockfill, and concrete dams. Over eight chapters, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the latest progress and research in dam engineering.




Finite Elements in Structural Analysis


Book Description

The book introduces the basic concepts of the finite element method in the static and dynamic analysis of beam, plate, shell and solid structures, discussing how the method works, the characteristics of a finite element approximation and how to avoid the pitfalls of finite element modeling. Presenting the finite element theory as simply as possible, the book allows readers to gain the knowledge required when applying powerful FEA software tools. Further, it describes modeling procedures, especially for reinforced concrete structures, as well as structural dynamics methods, with a particular focus on the seismic analysis of buildings, and explores the modeling of dynamic systems. Featuring numerous illustrative examples, the book allows readers to easily grasp the fundamentals of the finite element theory and to apply the finite element method proficiently.




Finite Element Analysis in Geotechnical Engineering


Book Description

An insight into the use of the finite method in geotechnical engineering. The first volume covers the theory and the second volume covers the applications of the subject. The work examines popular constitutive models, numerical techniques and case studies.




Approximate Methods in Structural Seismic Design


Book Description

This book examines the recent developments in computerized structural analysis and finite element analysis to re-appraise existing approximate techniques and to define their scope and limits more accurately. The book proposes new techniques and provides many numerical examples and comparisons with 'accurate' methods.




The Finite-Difference Modelling of Earthquake Motions


Book Description

A systematic tutorial introduction to the finite-difference (FD) numerical modelling technique for professionals, academic researchers, and graduate students in seismology.




Practical Finite Element Modeling in Earth Science using Matlab


Book Description

Mathematical models have become a crucial way for the Earth scientist to understand and predict how our planet functions and evolves through time and space. The finite element method (FEM) is a remarkably flexible and powerful tool with enormous potential in the Earth Sciences. This pragmatic guide explores how a variety of different Earth science problems can be translated and solved with FEM, assuming only basic programming experience. This book begins with a general introduction to numerical modeling and includes multiple sample Matlab codes to illustrate how FEM is implemented in practice. Textboxes have been included to provide additional detail, such as specialized Matlab usage or advanced topics. Covering all the key aspects, this is essential reading for those looking to master the technique, as well as those simply seeking to increase their basic level of understanding and appreciation of FEM.




Finite Element Analysis for Building Assessment


Book Description

Existing structures represent a heterogeneous category in the global built environment as often characterized by the presence of archaic materials, damage and disconnections, uncommon construction techniques and subsequent interventions throughout the building history. In this scenario, the common linear elastic analysis approach adopted for new buildings is incapable of an accurate estimation of structural capacity, leading to overconservative results, invasive structural strengthening, added intervention costs, excessive interference to building users and possible losses in terms of aesthetics or heritage values. For a rational and sustainable use of the resources, this book deals with advanced numerical simulations, adopting a practical approach to introduce the fundamentals of Finite Element Method, nonlinear solution procedures and constitutive material models. Recommended material properties for masonry, timber, reinforced concrete, iron and steel are discussed according to experimental evidence, building standards and codes of practice. The examples examined throughout the book and in the conclusive chapter support the analyst’s decision-making process toward a safe and efficient use of finite element analysis. Written primarily for practicing engineers, the book is of value to students in engineering and technical architecture with solid knowledge in the field of continuum mechanics and structural design.




Nonlinear Seismic Analysis and Design of Reinforced Concrete Buildings


Book Description

Forty scientists working in 13 different countries detail in this work the most recent advances in seismic design and performance assessment of reinforced concrete buildings. It is a valuable contribution in the mitigation of natural disasters.