M.TECH.

DEGREE EXAMINATION
Model Question Paper - I
Second Semester
Branch: Civil Engineering
Specialization: Computer Aided Structural Engineering
MCESE 202 FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS
(Regular – 2011 Admission onwards)
Time: Three Hours Maximum: 100 marks

Answer all questions.

Any data, if required may be suitably assumed and clearly indicated.

I. (a) Discuss how finite element method is evolved in the engineering field.
(8 marks)
(b) Discuss the minimization concept of total potential. Comment on stable and
unstable equilibriums. (8 marks)
(c) Compare variational and weighted residual methods in detail. (9 marks)

OR

II (a) Discuss the importance of idealization and mathematical modeling in finite

element analysis. (9 marks)
(b) Explain the steps involved in finite element analysis – displacement approach.
(9 marks)
(c) Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of finite element method over
conventional methods. (7 marks)

III (a) Explain the features of Hermition interpolation function with an example.
(7 marks)
(b) Derive the shape functions for four noded bar element using Legrangian
interpolation function. Nodes are equally spaced. (10 marks)
0 1
(c) Discuss about C and C continuity elements in detail. (8 marks)

OR

IV (a) What are the convergence and compatibility requirements? Discuss in detail.
(9 marks)
(b) Differentiate conforming and non-conforming elements. (7 marks)
(c) Explain patch test. (9 marks)

[P.T.O]
V (a) Derive the stiffness matrix for CST element. (10 marks)
(b) Derive the element stiffness matrix for a four noded isoparametric plane stress
element. (15 marks)
OR

VI (a) Explain the advantages of isoparametric formulation. Explain sub parametric and
super parametric elements. (6 marks)
(b) Write short notes on numerical integration. (7 marks)
(c) Using Gauss quadrature (two points) evaluates the following integral and compare
with exact value: -
6 2

I= ∫ ∫ (1-x)2(4-y)2dxdy (12 marks)

4 -2

VII (a) Explain shear locking and describe the methods to prevent shear locking.
(12 marks)
(b) Discuss the stiffness formulation of anyone nonconforming plate bending element.
(13 marks)
OR

VIII (a) Discuss Love-Kirchhoff ’s and Mindlin’s plate bending theories in detail.
(12 marks)
(b) Derive the element stiffness matrix for a typical Mindlin’s plate bending element.
(13 marks)