Finite element method approximation

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the finite element method (FEM) approximation using linear quadrilateral elements. It highlights the mapping process from the reference element domain (denoted as ##\Omega^R##) to the spatial element domain (##\Omega^e##) using basis functions (##N##). The participants clarify that the quadrilateral shape arises from these basis functions, and they explore the approximation of spatial coordinates (##x_i##) through the summation of nodal values (##x_i^k##). The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding these mappings and approximations in FEM.

PREREQUISITES
  • Finite Element Method (FEM) fundamentals
  • Linear quadrilateral element theory
  • Understanding of basis functions in FEM
  • Spatial coordinate approximation techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of basis functions in FEM
  • Explore the differences between reference and spatial element domains
  • Learn about nodal value summation techniques in FEM
  • Investigate advanced topics in finite element analysis, such as nonlinear elements
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Students and professionals in engineering, particularly those specializing in computational mechanics, finite element analysis, and numerical methods.

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In the picture above, we have on the left a figure representing spatial element, and on the right a figure representing reference element.

The type of element used in the method here is a linear quadrilateral element.

What I understand is moving or mapping from the reference element domain ##\Omega^R## where it seems that the quadrilateral element looks square; I don't understand why it is a square, to the spatial element domain ##\Omega^e##, we use with such mapping the basis functions.

I think the basis functions ##N## is what is giving us the quadrilateral shape?

For approximating spatial coordinates, ##x_i## at ##\Omega^e## is approximated by the summation over the nodal values ##x_i^k##, (here ##k## symbolizes node and ##i## symbolizes direction), I'm not sure if ##x_i## will be the average coordinate of the individual element since we're summing over the coordinates of each node.

Clarification is appreciated. Thank you.
 
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