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feynman1
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Why serendipity elements are called serendipity?
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SUMMARY
The term "serendipity element" in finite element analysis refers to an eight-node element whose shape functions were originally derived by inspection, as noted by Ergatoudis et al. in 1968. This nomenclature is inspired by the princes of Serendip, a historical reference to Ceylon, who were known for their chance discoveries, as highlighted by Horace Walpole in 1754. The connection between the term and its etymology emphasizes the element's nature of yielding unexpected yet beneficial results in engineering applications.
PREREQUISITES- Understanding of finite element analysis concepts
- Familiarity with the historical context of the term "serendipity"
- Knowledge of shape functions in finite element methods
- Basic principles of engineering mechanics
- Research the derivation of shape functions in finite element methods
- Explore the historical context of the term "serendipity" in literature
- Study the applications of eight-node elements in engineering simulations
- Learn about the contributions of Ergatoudis et al. to finite element analysis
Engineers, researchers in finite element analysis, and students studying engineering mechanics will benefit from this discussion, particularly those interested in the historical and etymological aspects of technical terminology.
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Baluncore
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FEAnalyst
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From "Introduction to the Finite Element Method" by N. Ottosen and H. Petersson:
Even though we have presented a systematic approach for the establishment of the element shape functions, these functions were originally formulated by inspection (Ergatoudis et al., 1968). The eight-node element is therefore called a serendipity element after the famous princes of Serendip noted for their chance discoveries (Horace Walpole, 1754).
From "The Finite Element Method for Engineers" by K.H. Huebner:
The terminology, coined in reference 13 [Ergatoudis et al.], stems from a fairy tale of old Ceylon (once called Serendip), where there were once three princes "who in their travels were always discovering, by chance or by sagacity, (agreeable) things they did not seek".
Even though we have presented a systematic approach for the establishment of the element shape functions, these functions were originally formulated by inspection (Ergatoudis et al., 1968). The eight-node element is therefore called a serendipity element after the famous princes of Serendip noted for their chance discoveries (Horace Walpole, 1754).
From "The Finite Element Method for Engineers" by K.H. Huebner:
The terminology, coined in reference 13 [Ergatoudis et al.], stems from a fairy tale of old Ceylon (once called Serendip), where there were once three princes "who in their travels were always discovering, by chance or by sagacity, (agreeable) things they did not seek".
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Vanadium 50
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lazy.feynman1 said:
It's also not 100% clear what you asking - is it the etymology of the word, or is it why this word is used over a synonym?
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feynman1
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resolved thanks a lotFEAnalyst said:
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feynman1
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etymology :)Vanadium 50 said:lazy.
It's also not 100% clear what you asking - is it the etymology of the word, or is it why this word is used over a synonym?
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