7​. Outlook

C​ongratulations, you have completed the "Getting Started with FEA" course!

Competencies covered by this course

FEAkn1 - List the various steps in the analysis/simulation process.
FEAkn15 - List two common solvers for large sets of simultaneous equations.
FEAkn17 - List the various element types commonly used in the analysis of components within your organisation.
F​EAkn35 - Discuss the terms Validation and Verification and highlight their importance.
F​EAco40 - Explain the rationale behind the use of 1D, 2D and 3D elements used in the analysis of components within your organisation.
F​EAap5 - Illustrate possible applications of 0D, 1D, 2D and 3D elements in your industry sector.
F​EAap13 - Conduct validation studies in support of FEA.
F​EAev4 - Manage A&S related physical and human resources within an organisation; in an effective manner.

Relevant resources

A Designer's Guide to Simulation with Finite Element Analysis

NAFEMS Publication by V. Adams, e-Library download

This book aims to guide mechanical design engineers and designers who use or plan to use Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to validate design concepts or predict and correct product failures. It addresses the ongoing debate of whether FEA should be left to specialists or made accessible to non-specialists, ultimately concluding that FEA use by designers is both inevitable and beneficial, but stresses the importance of understanding the technology, not just the tool.

The purpose of the book is to fill knowledge gaps left by basic software training, focusing on proper modelling methods, analysis assumption construction, and results interpretation. Though it primarily focuses on CAD-embedded analysis tools, it also provides insights relevant to engineers using more comprehensive FEA systems.

Finite Element Analysis for Engineers - A Primer

NAFEMS Publication by T. Hellen and A. Becker, e-Library download

The book primarily focuses on the application of the finite element method to structural mechanics in solids, introducing more complex topics through dedicated chapters. It discusses the fundamentals and mathematical derivations behind various finite element developments to help readers understand their implications and manage potential errors. Basic knowledge of applied mechanics and mathematical processes is assumed.

The book is divided into three parts where the first part focuses on the basis of the finite element method in stress analysis, the second part tackles practical aspects such as meshing and testing, and the third part explores further applications of the method in thermal, dynamic and non-linear behavior.

The Changing World of Simulation

Recording of Dr. Barna Szabo's presentation from the NAFEMS World Congress 2021, Free Access

Simulation, in ten years, won’t be recognizable to today’s practitioners. Vendors are consolidating, leading to technical and business changes. Hardware choices increasingly include local, CPU/GPU, HPC and cloud (or not), affecting where and how simulations are run. And the way enterprises use simulation is changing, too. In this webinar we explore these topics and ask 5 important questions to help you navigate these changes.

Innovation through Engineering Simulation - A Rolls-Royce Perspective

Recorded presentation of A. Keskin from Rolls-Royce, Free Access for Members

This presentation was held at the 2020 NAFEMS UK Conference "Inspiring Innovation through Engineering Simulation". The conference covered topics ranging from traditional FEA and CFD, to new and emerging areas including artificial intelligence, machine learning and EDA.

Further training

Understanding Solid Mechanics: Stress Analysis Approaches

Online course by G. Duffet and A. Becker

This course serves as a foundational guide to understanding solid mechanics, offering vital knowledge for engineers and designers to improve their finite element analysis skills. It is designed for individuals with a working knowledge of engineering design and analysis, and does not require in-depth understanding of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) or computational simulation. Over the course of five weeks, learners will explore statics, forces, equilibrium in design, elasticity, stresses, strains, constitutive/material relationships, hand calculations, boundary conditions, and applied loads. Unlike traditional academic courses, this program emphasizes practical examples and includes hand exercises for direct application of the theories, with solutions provided upon completion.

Basic Finite Element Analysis

Online course by T. Abbey

The six-session e-learning course provides comprehensive instruction on Finite Element Analysis (FEA). To overcome the learning curve faced by FEA novices, the course offers practical guidance on element types, solution types, meshing methods, loading and constraint methods, and pre-post processing options. The course syllabus covers a wide range of topics including the history and process of FEA, special elements and methods, real-world boundary conditions and loading, critical assessment of CAD geometry, and result checking. Each session involves homework assignments to enhance learning.

Introduction to Engineering Simulation for Non-Specialists

Online course by J. Strain

This course aims to democratise engineering simulation by educating design, project, and test engineers, and managers on its value and purpose in analysis-driven design. Key course content includes an overview of simulation, basic modelling workflow, results interpretation, and verification and validation methods. The learning process is enhanced through interactive in-session exercises, promoting a deeper understanding and fostering an engineering analysis mindset among participants.