The stiffness method is a widely used technique in finite element analysis (FEA) for solving structural analysis problems. It is based on the concept of equilibrium, where the stiffness properties of the elements are used to assemble a system of equations that represents the behavior of the entire structure.

learners can expect to achieve after completing the course.

• To define the stiffness matrix.
• To derive the stiffness matrix for a spring element.
• To demonstrate how to assemble stiffness matrices into a global stiffness matrix.
• To illustrate the concept of the direct stiffness method to obtain the global stiffness matrix and solve a spring assemblage problem.
• To describe and apply the different kinds of boundary conditions relevant to spring assemblages.