Great Introductory Book/ Extremely Useful Programs
This book provides the theory behind FEA and an understanding what is happening in the background when using a commercial FEA software. It is loaded with software that not only applies the theory in real world examples, but also it very useful for use in industry. FEA can be performed alone using only the software provided and works very well if the individual has some CAD experience (to input the geometry). I have used the software to determine stiffnesses and stresses for applications at work. A more in-depth knowledge of the mathematics involved and the types of elements and meshing provides for a greater appreciation of how the stiffnesses and stresses are being computed and can allow for a more accurate design with less chance of errors.
