What principles of structural mechanics are used in Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to evaluate the structural integrity of complex bridge designs?
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) relies on fundamental principles of structural mechanics to evaluate the structural integrity of complex bridge designs. Key principles include the concepts of stress, strain, and material constitutive laws that define the relationship between stress and strain for the materials used in the bridge. FEA uses the principle of equilibrium, ensuring that the internal forces within the structure balance the external applied loads. The principle of compatibility ensures that the deformations of the structure are continuous and consistent. The method discretizes the bridge into small elements, and then solves for the stresses and strains in each element using these principles. By analyzing the stress distribution, displacement patterns, and stability characteristics predicted by the FEA model, engineers can assess whether the bridge design can safely withstand the anticipated loads and environmental conditions.