A Finite Element Analysis is presented in this overview consisting of five pages. Five sources are cited in the bibliography.
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(Anonymous Finite Element Analysis, 2002; SectionVFEAnalysis.html). In light of this fact we can readily assume that Finite Element Analysis is truly a component of our technological age. However, it is
actually a scientific method of approach that was used just prior to our true age of technology, utilizing mathematical equations to determine configurations and stress factors. As would be imagined,
it is a relatively new, and versatile, form of approach. In the following paper we examine the history and definition of Finite Element Analysis and then discuss various methods of
use. The History and Definition of Finite Element Analysis "Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was first developed in 1943 by R. Courant, who utilized the Ritz method of numerical
analysis and minimization of variational calculus to obtain approximate solutions to vibration systems. Shortly thereafter, a paper published in 1956 by M. J. Turner, R. W. Clough, H. C. Martin,
and L. J. Topp established a broader definition of numerical analysis" (Widas, 1997; history.html). The primary focus of the paper involved examinations of the "stiffness and deflection of complex structures"
(Widas, 1997; history.html). It was during the 1970s that Finite Element Analysis truly took hold in computers, though the computers utilizing FEA were large and privately, or governmentally,
owned: "By the early 70s, FEA was limited to expensive mainframe computers generally owned by the aeronautics, automotive, defense, and nuclear industries. Since the rapid decline in the cost of
computers and the phenomenal increase in computing power, FEA has been developed to an incredible precision" with "Present day supercomputers...now able to produce accurate results for all kinds of parameters"
(Widas, 1997; history.html). In its most basic definition, we find that "Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a computer based technique for finding stresses and deflections in a structure