Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

Most books discuss the theory and computational procedures of finite elements (FE). In the past this was necessary, but today's software packages make FE accessible to users who knows nothing to the theory or of how FE works. People are now using FE software packages as "black boxes', without knowing the dangers of poor modeling, the need to verify that results are reasonable, or that worthless results can be convincingly displayed. Therefore, it is important to understand the physics of the problem, how elements behave, the assumptions and restrictions of FE implementations, and the need to assess the correctness of computed results.

Table of contents provided by Syndetics

• Bars and Beams: Linear Static Analysis
• Plane Problems
• Isoparametric Elements and Solution Techniques
• Modeling, Errors, and Accuracy in Linear Analysis
• Solids and Solids of Revolution
• Plates and Shells
• Thermal Analysis
• Vibration and Dynamics
• Nonlinearity in Stress Analysis
• References
• Index

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

Cook, a very prominent finite element researcher, is noted for his three editions of popular Concepts and Applications of Finite Element Analysis (3rd ed., 1989). This new work is written for the potential user rather than the student of finite elements. The focus is solely on stress analysis applications. Cook emphasizes the importance of proper modeling of the structure. The detail in discussions of major sources of error and of techniques to be used in modeling difficult problems is indicative of the experience that the author has acquired in his years of applying the method. This is not just another finite element book detailing theory; it addresses the nature of the problems the analyst faces, the types of questions asked, and the nature of the solutions to be obtained as finite elements theory is applied to stress analysis problems. The only other book of a similar nature is Finite Element Idealization ..., published by the American Society of Civil Engineers in 1987. Cook covers all the traditional material: line elements, planar elements, plate and shell problems, and axisymmetric and three-dimensional situations. Each chapter briefly discusses theory, then moves to types of applications, modeling problems, behavioral characteristics, and shortcomings of the different elements. Critiques of results are included for problems solved for a number of situations. Dynamics and nonlinear behavior are also covered. A user-friendly book, a must for engineering libraries. Upper-division undergraduate through professional. W. C. Schnobrich; University of Illinois at Urbana--Champaign

Author notes provided by Syndetics

Robert D. Cooke received his Ph.D. in Theoretical and Applied Mechancis from the University of Illinois in 1963. Since then he has been at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he is now a professor in the Department of Engineering Physics. His interests include stress analysis and finite element methods. In addition to the present book, he is author of Finite Element Modeling for Stress Analysis and Advanced Mechanics of Materials.