Thursday, October 20, 2011

Finite Element Analysis and Finite Element Method

The finite element method (FEM) has been introduced in the sixties in the aviation sector and has been used in dentistry in the seventies. This is a method for applying computerized numerical iteration. With this technique, stresses and displacements are determined with a predetermined pattern. FEM technique can be used for a small or large deflection will be examined in the applied load or displacement. Is capable of analyzing deformation of the objects, which are permanently in its curved shape of the applied force or elastic deformation. How incredibly large number of calculations needed to analyze a large structure, is a computer. Finite element method is available for many disciplines and companies, because of cost and low power of modern computers.
Basic concept of FEMFinite Element Method FEM or complex redefine solves a problem as the sum of the solution through a series of interrelated problems simple. In the finite element method, a complex structure is simplified by dividing it into small pieces. These elements are blocks, the structure. Each of the geometric shape formed by these elements, a strain specific function. May form shapes of triangle, tetrahedron, square, etc., depending on the strain function. A relatively simple set of equations is used to describe the behavior of the element. The set is built with this set of elements.Behavior of the whole structure is described by a large number of equations obtained from the fusion of the equations describing the behavior of individual elements. The computer is able to provide this great collection system of equations. The computer obtains the behavior of the individual elements of the solution. After these operations, the power of computers and the deformation of the structural parts. The strength of the structure was verified by comparing the allowable stress values ​​for the materials to be used.Finite Element Method, the team has a complex structure and to assess the detailed design of the structure. Also helps to increase the assessment of the structures that are highly overrepresented designed and built for many years.In general, two types of analysis are in the area, two models and three models. 2-D model is relatively simple and allows the analysis should be performed in a relatively normal computer, but sometimes tends to perform less accurate. Given that the 3-D modeling results are more accurate, but actually can work effectively only the fastest computers.Many algorithms and functions may be included within each one of these model systems. These models are responsible for the behavior of linear or nonlinear system. Linear systems are less complex and to determine the effective elastic deformation. Many of the systems suitable for testing materials until the failure is not linear, and represent the plastic deformation.
Applications of the FEM:1.MEF is used to describe the change in the shape of biological structures (morphometry), particularly in the area of ​​growth and development.
2.FEM and other related morphometric methods, such as macro-element method or boundary integral equation (BIE) are useful for assessing changes in complex ways.

3.Knowledge of the physiological range of voltages alveolar provides a reference guide for the design of dental implants, and is also important for bone remodeling related to stress understanding.
4.FEM is useful with structures potentially complex shapes, such as dental implants and homogeneous material involved.5.Is useful for analysis of the stresses that occur in the periodontal ligament when subjected to orthodontic forces.6.It is also useful to stress distribution in dental practice in relation to different models.
7.Is used in the field of design optimization of dental restoration. 
8.It is used to study the stress distribution within the cavity of the tooth. 
9.The type of predictive computer model used to describe the biomechanical study of tooth movement, although the exact impact of new materials and systems to evaluate the device without looking or less representative of the animal model.
10.MEF technique is widely used in structural engineering.
11.It is also used to predict the damage and to estimate the electric fields.
12.Also used to optimize the sheet metal punchingThe finite element methods are widely applied in commercial areas because of the incredible precision to achieve results. The applications have also increased due to reduced costs and the increasing power of computers.