Finite Element Analysis Lab

7th SEMESTER

Submitted by Arqam Ahmad

Class / Section ME 12 C
CMS ID 334444
Submitted to LE Ibrahim Khan

School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering

 Abstract

The document demonstrates the FEM analysis on one

problem analyzed using COMSOL. This problem includes in-
plane analysis of space truss. This model calculates the
deformation and axial forces of all members of a simple
geometry truss. The results are compared with the analytical
results given. The analysis is done in 2D space only.

Introduction

Introduction to FEA
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a powerful numerical
technique that has revolutionized the field of engineering
and computational science. It serves as a virtual
laboratory, enabling engineers and researchers to
simulate and analyze complex physical phenomena
across various disciplines, from structural mechanics and
heat transfer to fluid dynamics and electromagnetics.
FEA breaks down intricate real-world systems into
smaller, manageable elements, allowing for the accurate
prediction of how these systems will behave under
different conditions. As a cornerstone of modern
engineering design and analysis, FEA empowers professionals to optimize structures, products, and
processes, ultimately leading to safer, more efficient, and cost-effective solutions in an ever-evolving
technological landscape. In this exploration of Finite Element Analysis, we delve into its principles,
applications, and the profound impact it has had on the way we conceive, design, and innovate in the
world of engineering.
Introduction to Roof Truss
A roof truss is a structural framework designed to support the weight of a roof. It plays a crucial role in the
construction of buildings, providing stability, strength, and durability to the roof structure. Roof trusses
are commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial construction, and they come in various
shapes and designs to suit the specific requirements of a building.

The way engineers study and model complex structures has recently undergone a revolution thanks to
cutting-edge computational tools like COMSOL Multiphysics. Engineers may conduct thorough
investigations into the behavior of trusses using COMSOL's finite element analysis (FEA) capabilities, which
enable them to forecast stress distributions, axial forces, and deflections under various loading situations.
In this study, truss analysis using COMSOL is explored, with a particular emphasis on in-plane and space
trusses in the context of straightforward geometric structures with circular cross-sections. The main goal
is to investigate and comprehend how trusses behave in two dimensions, with a focus on the stresses
created, axial forces produced, and deflections seen within the truss geometry.

Bezier Polygon
A Bezier polygon is a closed, planar polygon defined by a
series of control points that determine the shape of the
polygon using Bezier curves. Bezier curves are
mathematical curves that are often used in computer
graphics, computer-aided design (CAD), and other fields
to create smooth and precise curves. In the context of a
Bezier polygon, the control points are used to define the
shape of the polygon. These control points can be either
endpoints or intermediate points that guide the
curvature of the polygon. The most common type of Bezier curve used for defining Bezier polygons is the
cubic Bezier curve, which is defined by four control points.
 Methodology

The truss’ geometry was constructed according to the

dimensions provided. All analysis was done in 2D space with
the Truss Physics and Stationary study. With each side of
truss being a square of 2 m length, it was rotated at an angle
of 45°. The truss members have a circular cross-section with
a diameter of 0.05 m. The material selected was a Blank
Material with the following properties:

𝐸 = 𝑌𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑔′ 𝑠 𝑀𝑜𝑑𝑢𝑙𝑢𝑠 = 70 𝐺𝑃𝑎

𝑣 = 𝑃𝑜𝑖𝑠𝑠𝑜𝑛′ 𝑠 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜 = 0.3
The ends of the geometry (a and b) were fixed with a 𝟓𝟎 𝒌𝑵
load applied at point d acting downwards. After selecting the
circular cross-section geometry, we evaluated “Displacement
of Vertices” and “Axial Forces in Members”.

Results and Discussion

Firstly, the results for Von-mises stress distribution is shown below:

Figure 1: Von-Mises Contour

After that, we have plotted the local axial force of the system. For this we followed this: Add Predefined
Plot>Study 1/ Solution 1 (sol1)>Truss>Force (truss). The results are shown below:

Figure 2: Local Axial Force Contour

Now, for the “Displacement of Vertices in 2D”, we followed this: Evaluation Group>Point
Evaluation>Compute. Similarly, for the “Axial Forces in Members (2D)”, we created the average variables
namely “aveop_(member)” and this came from “Local Couplings”. Then, by using the shape functions
“truss.NxL”, follow this: Evaluation Group>Global Evaluation>Compute. Here are the results:

Displacement (m)
COMSOL Result Analytical Result
Displacement at d -5.1447 E-4 -5.15 E-4
Displacement at c -2.1310 E-4 -2.14 E-4
Axial Force (N) in members
Member ac -10355 -10400
Member ad 25000 25000
Member cd 14645 14600

The first thing that should be noted in the simulation result is that it agrees pretty well with the analytical
results and verifies the accuracy of the simulation (with the boundary condition set). We may now simulate
a complex model using the same idea without making analytical computations.

The negative sign for member ac indicates compressive forces, meaning this member is under
compression, while the positive sign for members ad and cd indicate a tensile force. These axial forces
reveal the internal stresses experienced by each member due to the applied external load and constraints.
The applied load at joint d causes deformation in the truss structure. Due to the applied force and the
truss shape, joint d has moved farther than joint c, as evidenced by the bigger displacement at that
location. Knowing these displacements is essential to ensuring that the structure doesn't distort beyond
what is necessary to retain its integrity.

Based on these observations, our final result is:

Force Members Value (N) Nature (T/C)

AC -10355 C
AD 25000 T
CD 14645 T

*T for Tensile and C for Compression

Conclusion

The FEM analysis performed on the space truss undergoing various types of natural and essential
boundary conditions gives us an understanding regarding the displacement of individual vertices and axial
force members. The contour plots in 2D and force, displacement evaluation gives an overall understanding
of the structure’s deformity and the impact on the structure of the truss on application of a point load
when the frame is fixed sideways.