Course syllabus

Finite Element Method for Non-linear Systems
Finita elementmetoden - olinjära system

FHLN20, 7.5 credits, A (Second Cycle)

Valid for: 2025/26
Faculty: Faculty of Engineering LTH
Decided by: PLED M
Date of Decision: 2025-04-24
Effective: 2025-05-05

General Information

Depth of study relative to the degree requirements: Second cycle, in-depth level of the course cannot be classified
Elective for: BME5, F4, F4-bs, F4-bem, M4-bem, Pi4-bs, Pi4-bem, V5-ko
Language of instruction: The course will be given in English

Aim

The aim of the course is to provide an understanding about modelling and simulation of non-linear structural and material problems using the finite element method.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
For a passing grade the student must

understand the basic assumptions when establishing the finite element formulation for a structural non-linear problem
understand the basic assumptions in large deformations and large strains
utilize the finite element method in structural non-linear problems

Competences and skills
For a passing grade the student must

be able to establish a non-linear finite element formulation
write a non-linear finite element program
establish the weak form of different non-linear problems

Judgement and approach
For a passing grade the student must

have the capacity to analyze, model and simulate structural non-linear problems using the finite element method

The course treats the finite element method where both geometrical and material nonlinearities are present. The fundamental equations for large deformations and strains and the various strain measures and stress measures are introduced. The corresponding strong and weak forms of the equilibrium equations are discussed, both in their spatial and material format. The nonlinear finite element formulation is derived from the general three-dimensional case. Emphasis is given to the fundamental principles in the FE-formulation. During the course, the participants are going to establish their own nonlinear FE-program.

Examination details

Grading scale: TH - (U, 3, 4, 5) - (Fail, Three, Four, Five)
Assessment: The course consists of a series of seminars. In parallel computer laborations the numerical implementation is given. Examination is based on the two project assignments, which consider both theoretical and numerical issues. The projects are graded and the final grade is based on the total grade.

The examiner, in consultation with Disability Support Services, may deviate from the regular form of examination in order to provide a permanently disabled student with a form of examination equivalent to that of a student without a disability.

Modules
Code: 0117. Name: Finite Element Method for Non-linear Systems.
Credits: 7.5. Grading scale: TH - (U, 3, 4, 5).

Admission

Admission requirements:

FHLF01 Finite Element Method or FHLF20 Finite Element Method or FHLF25 Finite Element Method and Introduction to Strength of Materials or VSMN30 The Finite Element Method - Structural Analysis

The number of participants is limited to: No

Reading list

Matti Ristinmaa: Introduction to non-linear finite element method. Div. of Solid Mechanics.
CALFEM - A finite element toolbok to MATLAB. Studentlitteratur.

Contact

Course coordinator: Professor Matti Ristinmaa, Matti.Ristinmaa@solid.lth.se
Examinator: Matti Ristinmaa, matti.ristinmaa@solid.lth.se
Course homepage: https://www.solid.lth.se

Finite Element Method for Non-linear Systems Finita elementmetoden - olinjära system