2D&3D

Learning the Finite Element Method with MATLAB and GID

Description

This program is the practical application of the finite element method to structural analysis were the 2D elasticity hypotheses are fulfill (plane stress or plane strain). Also the 3D elasticity assumptions are considered.

There are a plenty of structures where you can make use of 2D elasticity hypothesis:
Plane stress problems: Prismatic structure where one dimension (thickness) is much smaller than the other two, and loads are contained in its mean plane: deep beams, squares with loads in its plane, buttress dams , etc .

Plane strain problems: Prismatic structure where one dimension (length) is much greater than the other two, and loads are uniformly distributed along its entire length: Retaining Walls, gravity dams, piping internal pressure and various problems ground engineering (tunnels, stress analysis under pads, etc.,).

Moreover, some structures, by their nature, do not allow the use of simplified models, so it is considered as a three-dimensional solid and the 3D elasticity general theory is used. Practical examples of such situations include concrete dams or other complex structure.