MECH 5884 01: Finite Element Analysis

MECH 5884 - Finite Element Analysis

Fall 2026 Syllabus, Section 01, CRN 41156,

Credit hours: 3

Course Meeting Times

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Instructor

Brian Friedrich

Email: bkfriedrich@ysu.edu

Public Instructor Information

Instructor Title: Dr.
Instructor Professional Qualifications: Ph. D., Materials Science and Engineering, Youngstown State University, 2022 
Instructor Office Location: Moser Hall 2505
Instructor Office Phone: 330.941.3023

Private Instructor Information

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Course Description

5884. Finite Element Analysis. Fundamental principles of finite element analysis with emphasis on applications to design in areas of stress analysis, vibrations, and heat transfer. Use of commercial software. Prereq.: MECH 3708, MECH 3725, MECH 3751. 3 s.h.

Course Readings

Group Title Author ISBN
Required Finite Element Simulations with ANSYS Workbench 2025, Theory, Applications, Case Studies Huei-Huang Lee, Paul J. Schilling 13:978-1-63057-764-3
Required A First Course in the Finite Element Method Daryl L. Logan 13: 978-1-305-63511-1

Finite Element Simulations with Ansys Workbench 2025 will be utilized for its detailed, step-by-step instruction for using ANSYS Workbench.

A First Course in the Finite Element Method will be utilized for the theory and general methods employed in finite element method software.

The course readings are subject to change in the event of extenuating circumstances, research developments, current events, and/or to ensure better learning.  

Course Learning Outcomes/Objectives/Goals

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How to Succeed in This Course

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Attendance Expectations

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Late Work Submission Policy

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Additional Course Expectations

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Artificial Intelligence Policy Statement

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Assignments/Assessments

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Grading and Grading Scale

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University Policies

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Schedule of Topics and Assignments

Week of Proposed Topic Due/To Prepare for Class
8/24 Syllabus Review
Introduction to the Stiffness Method and FEA
8/31 Introduction to the Stiffness Method and FEA
9/7 Truss Element Formulation and Solutions Homework 1
9/14 Truss Element Formulation and Solutions
9/21 Truss Element Formulation and Solutions Homework 2
9/28 Beam Element Formulation and Solutions Homework 3
10/5 Beam Element Formulation and Solutions
Frame and Grid Equations
10/12 Plain Stress and Plain Strain Elements and Solutions Exam 1
Homework 4
10/19 Plain Stress and Plain Strain Elements and Solutions
10/26 Practical Modeling Considerations Homework 5
11/2 Axisymmetric Elements and Solutions
11/9 Three Dimensional Stress Analysis Homework 6
11/16 Three Dimensional Stress Analysis
11/23 Buckling and Stress Stiffening Exam 2
Homework 7
11/30 Modal Analysis
Thermal Stress Analysis and Solutions (tentative)
Homework 8
12/7 Final Exam

The course schedule, policies, procedures, and assignments in this course are subject to change in the event of extenuating circumstances, by mutual agreement, and/or to ensure better learning.