FEA Analysis of a Plane Truss using ANSYS Software: Report

This report presents a finite element analysis (FEA) of a plane truss using ANSYS software. The study begins with theoretical calculations based on statics principles to determine reactions at supports and forces in truss elements. The subsequent FEA analysis involves creating the truss geometry, defining element properties, meshing, applying boundary conditions, and solving using the static structural solver in ANSYS. The results, including nodal displacements, support reactions, and forces in elements, are then compared with the theoretical calculations. The report highlights the accuracy of the ANSYS simulation, emphasizing the role of simple link elements in achieving exact solutions due to the linear nature of the problem. The conclusion underscores the accuracy of the FEA method when the geometry and shape functions are correctly implemented and any minor discrepancies can be attributed to rounding off during the calculations.