Publisher's Synopsis
The finite element method is a numerical procedure for solving ordinary and partial differential equations which arise in engineering and mathematical physics. This is a self-contained introduction to the theory and application of finite element methods in solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, and optimization.;The author's extensive experience of the application of finite element methods gives the book a practical slant. The text is illuminated with real worked examples. Care is taken to explain and demonstrate techniques for formulating finite element approaches to problems. Programming techniques for solving the resulting FEM problems are also thoroughly covered.