00420881

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00420881 Ross, C.T.F. Finite element methods in engineering science. Ellis Horwood Series in Mechanical Engineering. New York: Ellis Horwood. 519 p. \$ 40.40 (1990). 1990 New York: Ellis Horwood EN nodal forces matrix algebra energy stiffness displacement method truss and frame structures bar element eigenvalue problem computer procedure The book contains the basic course of the finite element method. It bridges a gap between traditional books in applied mechanics and specialized books on finite element analysis. The text starts from the introduction to matrix algebra. This chapter covers also the fundamental computational procedures of algebra useful in further applications. Then the energy and stiffness concepts described allow to introduce the displacement method in matrix notation. The relation to discrete systems and matrix methods in electrical and hydraulic circuits broadens the scope of the book. The next parts describe in detail the truss and frame structures and two-dimensional objects, though a shell finite element is mentioned only. Nodal forces due to thermal effects are derived for bar element. Higher order interpolation is introduced for two dimensions. The eigenvalue problem described allows to treat simple problems of vibrations of frames, grids and plane structures. Geometrical nonlinearities, steady-state field problem, axisymmetric problems and transient field problems (heat transfer, fluid flows, torsion of noncircular sections) extend the subject of the book. The computer procedure written in Basic fills up 80 pages of the appendix. The book is written in a clear form, with numerous explanations and examples with discussion. The contents of the book is easy to acquire. The book's practical approach to the subject is aimed at helping undergraduates and graduates in mechanical, civil and aeronautical engineering. It can be a very good tool as a first approach to computational mechanics. Cz.I.Bajer (Warszawa)