Unit 2

FINITE ELEMENT METHODS

(16 ME 64)
Compiled by:
Dr P R Venkatesh
Associate Professor
ME Dept, RVCE, Bengaluru-59
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
 UNIT-2 (08 Hrs)
(Two Questions with internal choice in SEE)
One dimensional finite elements, Bar & Truss
elements;
• Linear elements, Principle of minimum potential
energy, admissible displacement function, stiffness
matrix, strain matrix, static analysis using elimination
method, penalty method, boundary conditions and
assembly of load vector,
• Convergence and Compatibility conditions, Shape
functions for 1D linear, quadratic and Truss elements

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 Interpolation models
• Interpolation models are defined as the appropriate
mathematical model or trial function which
represents the displacement variation within the
element.

• The following types of interpolation models are used

in Variational methods/FEM.

1. Trigonometric functions
2. Polynomial function

Among the above, polynomial models are most widely

used due to ease of formulating, calculating
(differentiating & integrating) & better level of
accuracy (with higher order polynomials)
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
 Polynomial form of interpolation model
A polynomial type of interpolation model assumed to represent the
displacement variation within an element, then the dispalcement can
for be expressed as ;
u(x)= a0  a1 x  a2 x 2  a3 x 3 .......... (for 1-D element)
u(x, y)= a0  a1 x  a2 y  a3 x 2  a4 xy  a5 y 2  a6 x 2 y  a7 xy 2  .........
(for 2-D element)
If in the above polynomials, terms upto x1 & y1 are considered, it is said to
be a linear model.
If terms upto x 2 & y 2 are considered, it is said to be a quadratic model &
if terms upto x 3 & y3 are considered, it is said to be a cubic model & so on.

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 Convergence Criteria
• Convergence implies results obtained by FEA solution reaches the
exact solution. It depends on the proper selection of displacement field
variable & order of the interpolation polynomials.
• The convergence of the finite element solution can be achieved if the
following three conditions are fulfilled by the assumed displacement
function.
1. The displacement function must be continuous within the elements.
This can be ensured by choosing a suitable polynomial. For example, for
an n degrees of polynomial, displacement function in 1-D problem can be
chosen as:

u(x)= a0  a1 x  a2 x  a3 x .......... an x
2 3 n

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 Convergence Criteria....
2. The displacement function must be capable of rigid body
displacements of the element. The constant term used in the
polynomial (a0) ensures this condition. (Even for x=0, the
displacement will be equal to ao)
3. The displacement function must include the constant strains
states of the element. As element becomes infinitely small, strain
should be constant in the element. Hence, the displacement
function should include terms for representing constant strain
states. The second term used in the polynomial (a1) ensures this
condition. (As differentiation of a1x will be a1 , a constant)

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 Compatibility
• Displacement should be compatible between adjacent
elements. There should not be any discontinuity or
overlapping when deformed.
• The adjacent elements must deform without causing
openings, overlaps or discontinuities between the
elements.
Elements which satisfy all the three convergence
requirements and compatibility condition are called
Compatible or Conforming elements.

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 Criteria for selection of order of interpolation polynomial
• The number of generalized coordinates should be equal to the
number of degrees of freedom of the elements.

• The pattern of variation of the polynomial should be independent of

the local coordinate system. (Geometric or spatial isotropy or
Geometric invariance).

• The interpolation polynomial should satisfy the convergence

requirements.

• Displacement shape should not change with a change in local

coordinate system. This can be achieved if polynomial is balanced in
case all terms cannot be completed.

• This „balanced‟ representation can be achieved with the help of

Pascal triangle in case of a 2 D polynomial. The geometric
invariance can be ensured by the selection of the
corresponding order of terms on either side of the axis of
symmetry. Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Geometric invariance (or Spatial isotropy); Pascal’s
triangle

𝛼6

Pascal’s triangle
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
 Geometric invariance (or isotropy); Pascal’s triangle
Ex : If a cubic model is assumed, displacement polynomial
using Pascal’s triangle is ;
U ( x, y )  a0  a1 x  a2 y  a3 x 2  a4 xy  a5 y 2  a6 x 3  a7 y 3
or
U ( x, y )  a0  a1 x  a2 y  a3 x 2  a4 xy  a5 y 2  a6 x 2 y  a7 xy 2

• In the above polynomials, if we interchange x & y terms,

the pattern does not change.
• In both the equations, the same variable occur even after
interchanging. These polynomials are known as
“Balanced Polynomials”
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
 Coordinate systems

• Co ordinate system is a space where configuration of a

body is represented.
Ex: Cartesian Coordinate system, Polar Coordinate system

• In FEM, these general coordinate systems are further

classified as;
1. Global Coordinate system
2. Local Coordinate system
3. Natural coordinate system

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 Global Coordinate system

• The global coordinate system corresponds to the entire

body and used to define the points on the entire body.
• Fig shows method of representation in global coordinate
system.
y(v)
x ( x4, y 4 ) ( x 3, y 3 )
x(u) 4 3

1 2
x1 1 2
( x2 - x1 ) ( x 1, y 1 ) ( x 2, y 2 )
x2
x(u)

1-D Global coordinate system 2-D Global coordinate system

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
 Local Coordinate system
• A local coordinates system whose origin is located within
the element in order to simplify the algebraic manipulations
in the derivation of the element matrix.
• Local coordinate system corresponds to a particular
element in the body , and the numbering is done to that
particular element neglecting the entire body .

s s
r y
r
4 3
x1 x2 x(u)
L/2 r
1 L 2 2
1
r

x
x

1-D Local coordinate system 2-D Local coordinate system

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
 Natural Coordinate system

• Natural coordinate system - Similar to local coordinate

system but a node is expressed by a dimensionless set of
numbers whose magnitude never exceeds unity.

y(v) 

 ( ,  ) ( ,)
4 3

  
1 2 1 2

(  , ) (  , )
x x(u)

1-D Natural coordinate system 2-D Natural coordinate system

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Relation between global & Consider an one dimensional bar
Natural Coordinate system element represented in natural
coordinates as shown in fig.

Also the variation of natural

 coordinate is as shown in fig.
1 2 From similar triangles
AB BE
 D ABE & ACD, 
E  AC CD
x  x1   1
  
x2  x1 2
A B
2  x  x1 
C
x1
2 i.e.   1 
 x2  x1 
1
x
x2 2  x - x1 
ξ = -1
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
 x 2 - x1 
 Shape Functions
• Shape functions are defined as the interpolation functions
used to interpolate the value of the field variable (ex:
displacement) at any point within the element in terms of
nodal values.
Mathematically, displacement at any point within the element
n
is given by u ( x)   N i ui ; where ' n ' is the number of nodes
i 1

N i are the shape functions & ui are the nodal displacement

components in x-direction. Thus, For a two noded element,
u ( x)  N1u1  N 2u2 where N1 & N 2 are the shape functions &
u1 & u2 are the displacements at node 1 & 2 respectively.
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
For a two dimensional model, displacement at any point is;
 n
 
u   N i ui
u ( x, y )      n
i 1
For a three noded triangular element,
 v    N i vi
 i 1

u ( x)  N1u1  N 2u2  N 3u3
v( x)  N1v1  N 2v2  N 3v3
where N1 , N 2 & N 3 are the shape functions, u1 , u2 & u3 & v1 , v2 & v3
are the nodal displacements in x and y directions.

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 Shape Functions for Consider a 1-D bar element of
1 D bar element In
terms of Cartesian length le with a node at each end,
coordinates & each node has one DOF.
x
The variation of displacement inside
u1 u2
N1 N2
the element is given by u  ao  a1 x
O
x1 1
2 where ao & a1 are the generalized
x
x2
coordinates to be found from BC ' s
l e = ( x2 - x1 )
At x  x1 , u  u1 & At x  x2 , u  u2
 u1  ao  a1 x1 & u2  ao  a1 x2
Thus,  u2  u1   a1 ( x2  x1 )

or a1 
 u2  u1 
( x2  x1 )
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Substituting the value of a1 into equation of u1 ; u1  ao 
 u2  u1 
x
( x2  x1 )
1

 ao  u1 
 u2  u1  x  u1 x2  u2 x1 
1  Substituting the values of a0 & a1
( x2  x1 ) ( x2  x1 )

into equation of u, we get u 

 u1 x2  u2 x1   u2  u1 
 x
( x2  x1 ) ( x2  x1 )

u
 u1 x2  u2 x1   u2  u1 
 x where l  ( x2  x1 ) is the length of the 1 D
e
le le

bar element. Re-arranging the terms, u 

 u1 x2  u2 x1   u2 x  u1 x
le

u
 x2  x 
u 
 x  x1 
u Also u  N1u1  N 2u2 Comparing the two equations;
1 2
le le

N1 
 x2  x 
,N 
 x  x1 
Thus, values of shape functions at nodes 1 & 2 are
2
le le
  x 2 - x   x - x1  
 N  =  N1 N2  =  , 
 l e l e  ME Dept RVCE
Dr P R Venkatesh,
 x -x1
x 2 -x N2 =
N1 =
le
le
N1 =1
N2 =1

1 2 1 2

N2 u
N1

u = N1 u1 + N2 u2 u2
u1
1 1 x
2 2
Variation of shape function for 1 D bar element

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

Shape Functions for Consider a 1-D bar element of
1 D bar element In
terms of Natural length le with a node at each end,
coordinates & each node has one DOF.
x
The variation of displacement inside
u1  u2

the element is given by u  ao  a1
O  
x1 1
2 where ao & a1 are the generalized
x
x2
coordinates to be found from BC ' s
l e = ( x2 - x1 )
At node 1;   1, u  u1
At node 2,,   1, u  u2
 u1  ao  a1 & u2  ao  a1

Thus, ao 
 u1  u2 
& a1 
 u2  u1 
2 2
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Substituting the values of ao & a1 into equation of u;

u
 u1  u2   u2  u1 
  Re-arranging the terms, u 
1  
u 
1  
u 1 2
2 2 2 2

Also u  N1u1  N 2u2 , Comparing the two equations; N1 

1  
, N2 
1  
2 2
 1    1    
Values of shape functions at nodes 1 & 2 are  N    , 
 2 2 
1-  N2 =
1 
N1 = 2
2
N1 =1
N2 =1

1 2 1 2
N1 N2 u

N1 =1 N2 =1 u1 u2
u= N1 u1 + N2 u 2
1 2 1 2 
     

Dr function
Variation of shape P R Venkatesh,
for 1 ME Dept
D bar RVCE
element
 Properties of Shape functions
1. The value of a shape function at a specified point is unity
& at any other point its value is zero.
i.e. @ node 1, N1 =1, @ node 2, N1 =0
@ node 1, N 2 =0, @ node 2, N 2 =1
2. The sum of shape functions is unity.
 1    1  
i.e. N1    & N2    ,  N1  N 2  1
 2   2 
3. The derivative of shape function is constant.
dN1 1 dN 2 1
i.e.  , 
d 2 d 2

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

Q. Determine the value of  and shape functions N1 & N 2
for a 1-D bar element as showwn in fig at point P, if;
u1  0.003 mm, u 2  0.005 mm
Solution : Natural coordinate ξ at point P is
2( x  x1 ) 2(30  20)
x @ x 30  1   1  - 0.2
( x2  x1 ) (45  20)
 P  
O
2
Values of Shape functions at P are
x1=20 mm 1
 1     1  (0.2) 
x=30 mm N1      0.6
x2 = 45 mm  2   2 
 1     1  (0.2) 
N2      0.4
 2   2 
 Displacement at P = u = N1u1  N 2u2
 u = 0.6(0.003)+0.4(-0.005)  -2 × 10 -4 mm

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

Derivation of strain matrix & strain-displacement [B] matrix
x
u1  u2
  
O
x1 2
1
x
x2

l e = ( x2 - x1 )

u
We know that strain in an element is given by  
dx
u 
By parametric differentiation,   
d  x
The field variable u  N1u1  N 2u2 Where N1 & N 2 are shape functions given by;
 1    1   u  u2  u1 
u  
 1 
u  u2  
 2   2  d 2
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Derivation of strain matrix & strain-displacement [B] matrix..
2( x  x1 ) 2( x  x1 )  2
Also   1 = 1  
( x2  x1 ) le x le
u 
where le  length of element. Substituting for & in equation for  ,
 x
 u1  u2  2 1  u1 
   In the matrix form, strain matrix    1 1  
 2  le le u2 
i.e. Strain matrix   [ B]u , where
1
[B] =  -1 1 (i) is the strain - displacement matrix.
le
From Hooke's law, stress   E  σ = E[B] u (ii)
Eqn (ii) is the stress matrix for 1- D bar element.

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 Derivation of stiffness matrix using strain-displacement matrix
1 T
Strain energy for an element is given by SE     .dV
2V
For 1-D bar element, Volume  c / s area ( A)  length of element le
 
 Intergral over volume = Area  Integral over length

V dV  l A.dx 
e 
Also,   [ B]u & σ = E[B] u Substituting,

SE    E[B] u  [ B ]u A.dx

1 T

2 le

As E is a constant term, &  [B] u   u [B] T , Strain energy becomes;
T T

l  [B] E[ B] A.dx  u  2 u  ke u where ke is elemental

1 1
SE  u
T T T

2 e

stiffness matrix given by  ke  =   [B] T E[B]A.dx 

Dr P R Venkatesh,
le ME Dept RVCE
 Derivation of stiffness matrix ....

 ke  =   [B] E[B]A.dx  Substituting dx  d ,

T le
le
2
1
le
 ke  = [B] E[B]A.  d  AEle [B] T [B] 
1
T
1
 AEl e [B] T
[B]
2 1
1  1 1 1  1 1
T
Also [B] [B] =   -1 1  2
 
le   le
1 le  1 1 
AE  1 -1
 [ke ] = (iii) is the Elem ental stiffness matrix.
le  -1 1 

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 Derivation of Load Vector
(i) Load vector due to body force :
Work potential due to body force is given by  u T f dV   u T f A dx
V le

But u   N u and dx  d   WPBody force    N u  fA e d 

le T l
2 le
2

Also  N u   u  N 

T T T

1
fAle fAle 1 
    N  d  
T T T
WPBody force u u  
2 1
2 1
 1
 1  
   1       1
2 1 

 
  d   
2  1   2  2  0   1 
1
 1  2   2 
 N  d    1    1  
T

 1  
  1  2 1
       2  0   1
1
  d    
 1  2    2  
2  1   2 
   
Ale f 1
WPbody force = u f (iv) where  f  =
T
  is the body force vector
2 1 
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
 Derivation of Load Vector...
(ii) Load vector due to surface traction force :
Work potential due to surface traction is given by  u T T ds
s

For1-D bar element, traction is considered per unit length of surface.

le
 WPTraction   u T dx, But u   N u and dx  d 
T

le
2

 WPTraction    N u  T d  , Also  N u   u  N 

T le T T T

le
2
1
Tle Tl 1 
   N  d   e u
T T T
WPTraction u  
2 1
2 1
Tle 1 
WPTraction = u T  (v) where T  =
T
  is the surface traction vector
2 1 

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 Potential Energy functional for a continuum
PE functional for an element   SE  WP 
1
 u  ke u  u  f  - u T  - u Pi
T T T T

2
For the whole continuum, PE functional may be written as;
1
  U   K U   U T F where;
T

2
U is the global displacement vector
K is the global stiffness matrix
F is global force vector (Body force+Traction+Point loads)
 fAele 1  Tle 1  
 F       Pi 
 2 1 2 1 
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
 Properties of Stiffness matrix
1. The stiffness matrix is a banded & symmetric matrix
2. If there are 'n' number of nodes with one degree of
freedom each, then order of stiffness matrix is n× n.
3. The main diagonal elements of the stiffness matrix are
always positive.
4. If rigid body motion is not prevented by sufficient
boundary conditions the stiffness matrix becomes singular.
(i.e. its determinant becomes zero)

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 Problem 1
Consider the bar shown in Fig. An axial load P = 200 KN is
applied as shown.
Using elimination approach for handling boundary conditions,
(a) Determine the nodal displacements.
(b) Determine the stress in each material.
(c) Determine the reaction forces.

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

Stiffness matrices :
 1 2 3

 0.56 0.56 0  1
2400  70 10 3
    1 2

1 1 0.56 0.56    0.56 0.56 0  2
k  
1

(1)
 1 1  10 6

300    0.56 0.56  2  
 0 0 0 3
 
1 2 3

 0 0 0  1
600  200 10  1 1
3  2 3

0.3 0.3 2  0 0.3 0.3 2
k   
(2)
 1 1  10 6

400    0.3 0.3  3  
 0  0.3 0.3 3
 
Global stiffness matrix :  K    k    k 
(1) (2)

 1 2 3

 0.56 0.56 0 1
 K   106  0.56 0.86 0.3 2
 
 0  0.3 0.3  3 Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
 
Global load vector :
 0 1
 
Global load vector  F   200  103  2
 3
 0 
Equilibrium Equation :  K U    F  Using fixed bc's at nodes 1 & 3,
 1 2 3

 0.56 0.56 0  1  0   0 

 106  0.56 0.86 0.3 2 u2   200 103   0.86 106 u2 = 200 103
     
 0 0.3 0.3  3  0   0 
 
u2 = 0.2326 mm, u1 = u3 = 0

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

Stresses & strains :
u2  u1 0.2326  0
 
(1)
  7.752 × 10 -4
L1 300
 (1)  E (1)  70 103  7.752×10 -4  54.26 N / mm 2
u3  u2 0  0.2326
 (2)
   5.815 × 10 -4
L2 400
 (2)  E (2)  200 103  (5.815 10 -4 )  116.3 N / mm 2
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Reactions at Nodes :  R  [ K ]U   F
 1 2 3

 1
R  0.56 0.56 0  1 0   0 
       3
 R2   10 0.56 0.86 0.3 2 u2   200 10 
6

R       
 3  0  0.3 0.3    
3 0 0 
 
R1  106 (0.56  0.2326)  0  -130.26 KN
R2  106 (0.86  0.2326)  200 103  0
R3  106 (0.3  0.2326)  0  ME
Dr P R Venkatesh, -69.78
Dept RVCE KN
 Problem 2
A bar having uniform cross sectional area of 250 mm2 is
subjected to a load P= 60 KN as shown in fig. Determine the
displacement field, stress & support reactions in the bar.
Consider two elements and use elimination method to handle
the boundary conditions. Take E= 200 Gpa.
2
250 mm

P=60 KN x

150 mm 150 mm

0.12 mm
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
 2
250 mm

P=60 KN x
Stiffness matrix of an element is
Ae Ee  1 1
k  
150 mm 150 mm (e)
0.12 mm  1 1 
1 1
2
2
3
le  
l1 l2

Element Stiffness matrices :

1 2 3

 1  1 0  1
250  200 10  1 1 10 1 1 1 10
6  1
3 2 6

k       1 1 0  2
(1)
  
150  1 1  3  1 1  2 3 
  
 0 0 0 3
 
1 2 3

 0 0 0  1
250  200 10  1 1 10 1 1 2 6 
3 2 3

k      0 1 1 2
(2)
  
150  1 1  3  1 1  3 
  
0 1 1  3
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE  
Global stiffness matrix :  K    k    k 
(1) (2)

1 2 3

6 
1  1 0  1
10
 K    1 2 1 2
3  
 0 1 1  3
 
 u1   0 
   
Global displacement vector : U   u2    u2 
u  0.12 
 3  
 F1   0 
   3
Global load vector :  F    F2  = 60 10 
F   0 
 3  
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Equilibrium Equation :  K U    F 
Elimination Method of applying boundary conditions :
Using bc's at nodes 1 & 3, as node 1 is fixed, the corresponding row & column
may be eliminated. But at node 3, a specified displacement a3  0.12 mm is given.
 F1  k13a3 
 
Hence the force vector must be modified as;  F2  k23a3 
F  k a 
 3 33 3 
Now, first row & first column & third row & third column may be eliminated.
 
 
 1 2 3
  0  0 
1  1 0 1  0  1  F  k13 a3 
 
106         106  
  1 2 1 2  u2  2   F2  k23a3  = 60 10  (1) 
3
 0.12 
3         3  
 0  1 1  
3 0.12  3  F  k a  
 
3 33 3
 106  
 0  0.12 
  3  
106  106 
 (2u2 ) = 60 10   
3
 0.12   u2 = 0.15 mm . Also u1 = 0,u3 = 0.12 mm
3  3 Dr P R Venkatesh,
 ME Dept RVCE
Stresses & strains :
u2  u1 0.15  0
 (1)    1  10 -3 ,
L1 150
 (1)  E (1)  200 103  1×10 -3  200 N / mm 2
u3  u2 0.12  0.15
 (2)    -2 × 10 -4 ,
L2 150
 (2)  E (2)  200 103  (2 10 -4 )  40 N / mm 2
Reactions at fixed supports :  R  [ K ]U   F
1 2 3

 1
R 6 
1  1 0  1  0 1  0 
  10      3
 2
R  1 2  1 2  0.15  
2  60  10 
R  3    3  0 
 3  0  1 1  
3 0.12   
 
106
R1  (1 0.15)  0  -50 KN,
3
106
R3  (1 0.15  1 0.12)  0  -10 KN
3 Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Equilibrium Equation :  K U    F 
Penalty approach of applying boundary conditions :
In this approach, the fixed nodes may be modelled as those having
a very high stiffness C, where C  Max K ij 104
106 10 6
Here, C   2 104  (20000) (i.e. C = 0.667 1010 )
3 3
Add this value to stiffness terms at node 1 & 3. Also add Ca1 & Ca3
106 106
Hence, k11  k33  (20000  1)  (20001)
3 3
F1  Ca1  (0.667 1010  0)  0
F3  Ca3  (0.667 1010  0.12)  800  106

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

  1 2 3

6 
20001  1 0  1  u1  1  0 
10
 1    
 2 1  2 u2  2   60 103 
3     800 106 
 0  1 20001   3
3 u 3  
 
106
 (20001u1 )  u2  = 0  20001u1 - u2 = 0 (i)
3
106
(u1 )  2u2  u3  = 60 103  -u1 + 2u2 - u3 = 0.18 (ii)
3
106
(0  u2  20001u3  = 800 106  u2 + 20001u3 = 2400 (ii)
3
Solving, u1 = 7.4998 × 10 -6 mm, u2 = 0.15mm, u3 = 0.1200015 mm ,
Reactions at fixed supports : R  -C (qi  ai )
R1  C (q1  a1 )  0.6667  1010 (7.4998 106  0)  -50 KN
R3  C (q3  a3 )  0.6667  1010 (0.1200015  0.12)  -10 KN
Note : In penalty method, do not round off the displacements to
second or third decimal place. Keep all the digits after decimal.
 Temperature Effects :
If there is a change in temperature T of a 1 D bar element, the
load vector may be modified as; F   f e  T e   e  P where;
e

f e  Body force, T e  Traction force, P  Point load

 e is the additional load due to thermal effect, given by
 e   E  A    T 
where  = Coefficient of thermal expansion
A  Area of the element, E  Modulus of elasticity
Strain in the element is    B u  T
Stress in the element is   E =E   B u  T 

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 Problem 3
An axial load P = 300 KN is applied at 20°C to the rod as
shown in Fig. The temperature is then raised to 60°C.
(a) Assemble the K and F matrices.
(b) Determine the nodal displacements and element stresses.

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

Element Stiffness matrices :
Ae Ee  1 1
Stiffness matrix of an element is  k  
(e)
 1 1 
le  
 1 2 3

 315 315 0 1
900  70 10  1 1
3  1 2


k   315 315 1
   315 315 0 2
(1)
  10 3
  10 3

200  1 1   315 315  2  

 0 0 0 3
 
1 2

3

 0 0 0 1
1200  200 10  1 1
3  2 3


k  
2
(2)
 3
 800 800   3
0 800 800  2
  10 10
300  1 1   800 800  3  
0 800 800  3
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE  
Global Stiffness matrices :  K    k    k 
(1) (2)

 1 2 3
 1 2 3

 315 315 0  1 0 0 0 1
 
K  10 3
 315 315 0  2  10 3
0 800 800  2
   
 0 0 0 3 0 800 800  3
   
 1 2 3

 315 315 0 1
  K   103  315 1115 800  2
 
 0 800 800  3
 

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

Element Load Vectors :
Here there is a temperature change of T  (60 - 20)  400 C
1
Load in element 1 due to T is    E1  A1  1  T   
(1)

1
1 3  1
    70 10  900  23 10  40     57.96 10  
(1) 3 6

1 1
1
Similarly, Load in element 1 due to T ,    E2  A2   2  T   
(2)

1
1 3  1
    200  10  1200  11.7  10  40     112.32  10  
(2) 3 6

1 1
Also, there is point load at node 2 which is equal to 300 103 N .

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

Global Load Vector :
 57.96  57.96 
3  3 
 
F  10 57.96  112.32  300   10  245.64 
  112.32 
 112.32   
Equilibrium Equation :  K U    F 
 1 2 3

 315  315 0  1  u1  57.96 
3 
 
 10 315 1115 800 2 u2   10  245.64 
3

    112.32 
 0  800 8 0 0  3  u   
 
3

Using fixed bc's at nodes 1 & 3, u1  u3  0

Hence eliminating row & column numbers 1 & 3
103 1115  u2 = 103  245.64  u2 = 0.22 mm, u1 = u3 = 0
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Strains & stresses :
 u2  u1   0.22  0 
 (1)   
 1  T  



  23  10 6
 40   1.8  10 -4

 L 1  200
 (1)  E1 (1)  70 103  1.8×10 -4  12.6 N / mm 2
 u3  u2   0  0.22 
 
(2)

 2  T  



 11.7  10 6
 40   -1.201× 10 -3

 L 2  300
 (2)  E ( 2 )  200 103  (1.20110 -3 )  240.2 N / mm 2
Reactions at fixed supports :  R  [ K ]U   F
 1 2 3

 1
R  315  315 0  1 0  57.96 
      3 
 2
R  10 3
315 1115  800 2  0.22   10  245.64 
R      112.32 
 3  0 800 800  
3 0   
 
R1  103  (315  0.22)  (57.96)   -11.34 KN
R1  103  (1115  0.22)  (245.64)   -0.34 KN
R3  103 (800  0.22  112.32)
Dr P R -288.32
Venkatesh, KN
ME Dept RVCE
 ANALYSIS OF TRUSSES
• A framework composed of members joined at their ends to
form a structure is called a truss.
• Truss is used for supporting moving or stationary load.
Bridges, roof supports, derricks, and other such structures
are common example of trusses.
• When the members of the truss lie essentially in a single
plane, the truss is called a plane truss .

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 Common assumptions made in analysis of trusses
• It should be a prismatic member of a homogenous &
isotropic material resisting a constant load.
• A load on a truss can only be applied at the joints (nodes).
• Due to the load applied each bar of a truss is either induced
with tensile/compressive forces.
• The joints in a truss are assumed to be frictionless pin joints
• Self-weight of the bars are neglected.

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 Element stiffness
matrix of Trusses

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

Element stiffness • Fig shows a typical truss
matrix of Trusses element in local & global
coordinate system.
• Local coordinates vary with
the orientation of the
element where as the global
coordinates remain fixed
and does not depend on the
orientation of the element.
• Let x & y be the global
coordinates and each node
has two dof.
• Let q1 and q2 be the x & y
displacements at node 1
and q3 and q4 be the values
at node 2.
• Similarly, q1‟, q2‟, q3‟ and q4‟
be the corresponding local
displacements.
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
 From the fig, relationship between
Element stiffness
q and q ' is ;
matrix of Trusses
q1'  q1 cos   q2 sin 
q2'  q3 cos   q4 sin 
Let l = cos θ and m = sin θ be
the direction cosines. Then
q1'  lq1  mq2
q2'  lq3  mq4
In the matrix form ;
 q1 
 q1'   l m 0 0  q2 
 '       L q
q2  0 0 l m   q3 
q4 
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
 Element stiffness matrix of Trusses
l m 0 0 
where  L     is the transformation matrix.
0 0 l m 
To find the direction cosines :
Let the coordinates of the ends of
2
truss element whose length is le be
( x2 , y2 )
as shown. From the fig, direction
le
( y 2 - y1 ) cosines are given by ;

( x2  x1 )
1 l  cos  
( x1 , y1 ) ( x 2 - x1 ) le
Direction Cosines
( y2  y1 )
m  sin  
le
The length of the element is

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

le  ( x2  x1 ) 2  ( y2  y1 ) 2
The truss element is equivalent to one dimensional bar element
in local coordinates. Hence the element stiffness matrix is given
Ae Ee  1 1
by; k 
'
e  1 1  with usual notations.
le  
(The single prime (') denotes local coordinate system)
The elemental strain energy for a truss element in local coordinate
1 T
system is given by U e = q ' k ' q '
2
Stiffness matrix needs to be in global coordinate sytem.
1 1 T T 1 T
Using q '  Lq, U e =  Lq  k '  Lq  = q  L k ' L  q  q kq
 
T

2 2 2
where k   LT k ' L  is the elemental stiffness matrix in global
coordinate system.
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
where L is the transformation matrix
l 0 l 0
m 0   0   1 1
l m 0 0 Ae Ee  m
L =  L 
T
L k ' 
T

 0 0 l m 0 l  le 0 l   1 1 
   
0 m 0 m
l l 
 m 
Ae Ee  m
Multiplying the two matrices, L k ' 
T

le  l l 
 
  m m 
l l 
 m  l m 0 0 
Ae Ee  m
 k   L k ' L  
T

le  l l  0 0 l m 
 
 m m 
l 2 ml -l 2 -ml 
 
Ae Ee  ml m2 -ml -m 2 
Stiffness matrix of truss element k =
le  -l 2 -ml l2 ml 
 2 
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE  -ml -m 2 ml m 
Derivation of Element stress matrix of truss element :
The element stress matrix for a truss element is equivalent
1
to that of 1D bar element.   EBq ' where B   1 1
le
 q1' 
and q '   '  Also q '  Lq
q2 
 q1 
1 l m 0 0  q2 
  EBq '  E  1 1   
le 0 0 l m   q3 
q4 
 q1 
q 
E  2
σ =  -l -m l m   
le  q3 
q4 
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Determine the nodal displacements, stresses &
support reactions in the truss segments subjected to
point loads as shown in fig. Take E= 70 GPa, A=0.01
m2.
200 KN Note:
1. At roller supports, the displacement
perpendicular to the rollers is constrained
but allowed along the rollers.
2. At the hinged support, all displacements
are constrained.

2
1m 3

100 KN

1m
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
 200 KN
q ,F
6 6
3 q5 , F
5

2
1m 3 l3 l2
q4 , F
4
100 KN
q ,F
2 2 135

90
1 v

v
1 q ,F l1 2 q3 , F
1m 1 1 3

Element  l l2 m m2 lm Length
1 00 1 1 0 0 0 1m
2 1350 0.707 0.5 0.707 0.5 0.5 1.414 m
3 900 0 0 1 1 0 1m
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Element stiffness matrices in global coordinates are given by;
l 2 2
-ml   1 2 3
4
ml -l
 1 0 1 0  1
 
A E ml m2 -ml -m 2   0.01 70 109   0 0 0 0
 k (1)   1   2
2
  
l1 -l -ml l2 ml   1   1 0 1 0 3
 
-ml -m 2 ml m2   0 0 0 0  4

1 2 3 4 5 6
1
7 0 7 0 0 0 
 2
0 0 0 0 0 0 
 3
 7 0 7 0 0 0 
 k (1)   108  
0 0 0 0 0 0 4
 
0 0 0 0 0 0 5
 
0 6
 0 0 0 0 0 

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

  3 4 5 6
  3 4 5 6

 1 1  1 1 
3
 1 1  1 1 
3

0.01 70 10  1 1 1 1

9
 
 2.475 108  1 1 1 1
4 4
 k (2)    
 1 1 1 1  1 1 1 1
2 2 5 5

 1 1 1 1 6  1 1 1 1 6

1 2 3 4 5
1 6

0 0 0 0 0 0 
 2
0 0 0 0 0 0 
 3
0 0 2.475 2.475 2.475 2.475 
 k (2)   108  
0 0 2.475 2.475 2.475 2.475 4
 
0 0 2.475 2.475 2.475 2.475 5
 
0 2.475 2.475 2.475 2.475  6
 0

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 1 2 5 6

0 0 0 0 1
9 
 0. 01  70  10  0 1 0 1 2
 k   
(3)

 1  0 0 0 0 5
 
0 1 0 1 6

1 2 3 4 5 6
1
0 0 0 0 0 0 
 2
0 7 0 0 0 7 
 3
8 0 0 0 0 0 0 
 k   10 
(3)

0 0 0 0 0 0 4
 
0 0 0 0 0 0 5
 
0 7 0 7  6
 0 0
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Global stiffness matrix  K  = k (1) + k (2) + k (3)
1 2 3 4 5 6

7 0 7 0 0 0 1
0 7 0 0 0  7 2
 

8 7 0 9.475 2.475 2.475 2.475  3
 K   10  
0 0 2.475 2.475 2.475 2.475 4
0 0 2.475 2.475 2.475 2.475 5
 
 0 7 2.475 2.475 2.475 9.475  6
 0 
 0 
 

3 100

Global load vector is  F   10  
 0 
 0 
 
 200 
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
The equation of equilibrium is KQ = F
1 2 3 4 5 6

7 0 7 0 0 0  1  q1   0 1
0 7 0 0 0 7  2 q   0 2
   2  

8 7 0 9.475 2.475 2.475 2.475  3  q3   
3 100 3
10      10  
0 0 2.475 2.475 2.475 2.475 4 q4   0 4
0 0 2.475 2.475 2.475 2.475 5  q5   0 5
     
 0 7 2.475 2.475 2.475 9.475  6 q6   200  6
Imposing the boundary conditions q1  q2  q4  q5  0
 @ roller supports, normal displacements are constrained & 
 
 @ hinged supports, all displacements are constrained 
8  9.475 2.475  q3  3  100 
& using elimination approach, 10      10  
 2.475 9.475   6 
q  200 
Solving, q3 = -0.17 × 10 -5 m, q6 = 0.25 × 10 -5 m
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Stresses in elemnts : In element 1.
 q1  0
q  0
E   70  10 9
 
σ (1) =  -l -m l m   2    1 0 1 0  
le  q3  1 q3 
q4   0 
Solving, σ (1)  70 109  (0.17 105 ) = 0.119 × 10 6 N / m 2
 q3 
q 
E  
In element 2, σ (2) = -l -m l m  4 
le  q5 
q6 
 q3 
0
70 109
 0.707 0.707 0.707 0.707  0 
1.414  
q6 
70 109
Solving, σ 
(2)
 0.707  105 (0.17  0.25) = 0.028 × 10 6 N / m 2
1.414
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Stresses in elemnts : In element 3.
 q1  0
q  0
E   70  10 9
 
σ (3) =  -l -m l m   2    0 1 0 1 0 
le q
 5 1  
 q6  q6 
Solving, σ (3)  70 109  (0.25 105 ) = 0.175 × 10 6 N / m 2
Reactions at supports : R = KQ - F
1 2 3 4 5 6

 R1  7 0 7 0 0 0 1 0  0 1
R  0 7 0 0 0 7 2 0  0 2
 2      
 R3  
8 7 0 9.475 2.475 2.475 2.475  3  q3   
3 100 3
   10      10  
R
 4  0 0 2.475 2.475 2.475 2.475 4 0
   0 4
 R5  0 0 2.475 2.475 2.475 2.475 5 0  0 5
       
 R6   0 7 2.475 2.475 2.475 9.475  6 q6   200  6

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

R1  7 108 (0.17 105 )  0  1190 N

R2  7 108 (0.25 105 )  0  -1750 N

R3  108 9.475  (0.17 105 )  2.475(0.25 10 5 )   (100)103  99008 N

R4  108  2.475  (0.17 105 )  2.475  (0.25 10 5 )   0  -198 N

R5  108  2.475  (0.17  105 )  2.475(0.25 105 )   0  1039.5 N

R6  108  2.475  (0.17 105 )  9.475  (0.25 10 5 )   200 103  -198052 N

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

For a two element truss member shown in fig,
determine the nodal displacements and stress in
each member. Take E=200 Gpa.
2
1000 mm
50 KN
2

500 mm
1
2
1200 mm

750 mm

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 q 1000 mm
2 q
6 4
50 KN
2
q 2 q
3 5 3

 500 
  tan  
1
 33.7 0
500 mm
1
 750 
q2 2
1200 mm
l1  0.752  0.52  901.4 mm
1 q1 
A1  1200 mm 2 , A2 = 1000 mm 2
E  200 103 N / mm 2
750 mm

Element  l l2 m m2 lm Length
1 33.7 0 0.832 0.692 0.555 0.308 0.462 901.4 mm
2 1800 -1 1 0 0 0 750 mm

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

Element stiffness matrices in global coordinates are given by;
l 2 -l 2 -ml   1 2 3 4

ml
 0.692 0.462 0.692 0.462 
1
 2
A E ml m2 -ml -m   1200  200 10   0.462 0.308 0.462 0.308 
3
 k (1)   1  2
2
  
l1 -l -ml l2 ml   901.4   0.692 0.462 0.692 0.462  3
 
-ml -m 2 ml m2   0.462 0.308 0.462 0.308  4

 1 2 3 4 5 6
1
1.84 1.23 1.84 1.23 0 0 
 2
1.23 0.82 1.23 0.82 0 0 
 3
 1.84 1.23 1.84 1.23 0 0 
 k (1)   105  
 1.23 0.82 1.23 0.82 0 0 4
 
0 0 0 0 0 0 5
 
0 6
 0 0 0 0 0 

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

 l
2 2
-ml   3 4 5
6
ml -l
 1 0 1 0  3
 
A E ml m2 -ml -m 2   1000  200 103   0 0 0 0
 k (2)   2  2
4
  
l2 -l -ml l2 ml   750   1 0 1 0 5
 
-ml -m 2 ml m2   0 0 0 0  6

1 2 3 4 5 6
1
0 0 0 0 0 0 
 2
0 0 0 0 0 0 
 3
5 0 0 2.67 0 2.67 0 
 k   10 
(2)

0 0 0 0 0 0 4
 
0 0 2.67 0 2.67 0 5
 
0 6
 0 0 0 0 0 

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

Global stiffness matrix [K] = k (1) + k (2)

 1 2 3 4 5 6
1
1.84 1.23 1.84 1.23 0 0 
 2
1.23 0.82 1.23 0.82 0 0 
 3
5  1.84 1.23 4.5 1.23 2.67 0 
[K] =10  
 1.23 0.82 1.23 0.82 0 0 4
 
0 0 2.67 0 2.67 0 5
 
0 6
 0 0 0 0 0 
 0 
 0 
 
 0 
Global load vector is  F   10  3

 50 
 0 
 
 0 
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
The equation of equilibrium is KQ = F

 1 2 3 4 5 6
1
1.84 1.23 1.84 1.23 0 0 
 2  q1   0 1
1.23 0.82 1.23 0.82 0 0  q   0 2
 3  2  
5  1.84 1.23 4.5 1.23 2.67 0   q3   0 3
   10 
3
10   
q
 4  50 4
 1.23 0.82 1.23 0.82 0 0 4
   q5   0 5
0 0 2.67 0 2.67 0 5    
  q6   0 6
0 6
 0 0 0 0 0 
Imposing the boundary conditions q1  q2  q5  q6  0
(At pin joints, (hinged supports) all displacements are constrained)

 4.5 1.23   q3  3 0 
& using elimination approach, 10      10 
5

1.23 0.82  q4  50 
Solving, q3 = 0.2825 mm, q4 = -1.033 mm
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
  q1 
q 
E  2
Stresses in elemnts : In element 1. σ =  -l -m l
(1)
m  
l1  q3 
 q4 
 0 
 0 
200  10 3
 
σ (1)   0.832 0.555 0.832 0.555  
901.4  0.2825 
1.033
Solving, σ (1)  221.88   (0.832  0.2825  0.555(1.033)  = -75.06 N / mm 2
 q3   0.2825 
q  1.033
E   200  10 3
 
In element 2, σ (2) =  -l -m l m   4   1 0 1 0  
l2 q
 5 750  0 
q6   0 
Solving, σ (2)  266.67   (1 0.2825  0 = 75.33 N / mm 2
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Reactions at supports : R = KQ - F
 1 2 3 4 5 6

1.84 1.23 1.84 1.23 0 0 
 R1    0   0 
R  1.23 0.82 1.23 0.82 0 0  0   0 
 2     
 R3  5  1.84 1.23 4.5 1.23 2.67 0   0.2825   0 
    10   1.033  10 50 
3

 R4   1.23 0.82 1.23 0.82 0 0    

 R5    0   0 
  0 0 2.67 0 2.67 0    
 6 
R   0   0 
0 
 0 0 0 0 0 
 R1  75039 
 R  49959 
 2  
 R3   66 
  
R
 4  41.5 
 R5  75428 
   
 6  
R 0 
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Obtain the nodal displacements and reactions at supports
in the truss shown in fig. Take E=200 Gpa, A=200 mm2.

12 KN
3 2
2

1
300mm

500 mm 400 mm

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE

Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE
Dr P R Venkatesh, ME Dept RVCE