Long-form article
New to FEA, where to go, what to do?
Where to begin when applying finite element analysis to real engineering projects.
TONY ABBEY · FEA ARTICLES
Long-form reading on finite element analysis, practical checks and engineering judgement.
Explore 17 articles developed over many years. Each opens on its own page, so you can settle into the detail at your own pace.
Long-form article
Where to begin when applying finite element analysis to real engineering projects.
Long-form article
How plane stress and plane strain assumptions can simplify structural models.
Long-form article
Using analogies to understand the capabilities of 1D and 2D elements.
Long-form article
A question from an introductory FEA course opens a discussion of material behaviour.
Long-form article
An overview of structural optimization concepts, methods and available tools.
Long-form article
An introduction to topology optimization and the practical questions it raises.
Long-form article
Clarifying the differences between topology, topography and topometry optimization.
Long-form article
A closer look at the SIMP method and controls for the optimization process.
Long-form article
Evolutionary methods and level-set approaches to topology optimization.
Long-form article
Robust design solutions and practical controls for topology optimization.
Long-form article
The philosophical questions that influence optimization objectives and decisions.
Long-form article
Reflections on demonstrations, benchmarks and checking FE analysis.
Long-form article
Managing simulation data through the experience of a real analysis project.
Long-form article
A reflection on the information and checks behind data-driven decisions.
Long-form article
Comparing traditional FEA interfaces with CAD-embedded analysis environments.
Long-form article
The value of technical conferences, networking and exchanging experience.
Long-form article
An engineer’s reflections on the CAD and CAE marketplace, prompted by conversations on aeroplanes.
