This paper presents a formulation for the solution of the steady state response of a semi-infinite strip with stress-free semi-infinite edges and a time-harmonic shear and normal stress applied to the end. If the end stresses form a selfequilibrated stress state, the presence or absence of a dynamic Saint-Venant region may be examined. The mathematical analysis is based on the linear equations for generalized plane stress and are solved by a biorthogoual eigenfunction expansion. The formulation is in terms of stresses and a displacement related auxiliary variable of the same differential order as the stress. Ntimerical solutions are presented as an indication of frequency and stress mode shape dependency. ZUSAMMENFASSUNGDiese Arbeit enthfilt eine Formulierung filr die mathematische Behandlung der station/iren Schwingung eines halbunendlichen Streifens mit spannungsfreien Rfindern bei Anwendung einer zeitharmonischen Scherungsspannung und Normalspannung am Ende des Streifens. Bilden die Endspannungen einen im Gleichgewicht selbsterhaltenen Zustand, so kann man das Vorhandensein oder das Nichtvorhandensein eines dynamischen Saint-Venant Gebietes untersuchen. Die mathematische Analyse wird aufden linearen Gleichungen fiir verallgemeinerten ebenen Spannungszustand begriindet. Diese Gleichungen werden mittels einer biorthogonalen eigenfunctionen Entwicklung gel6st. Die Formulierung wird ausgeftihrt bedingt yon den Spannungen und yon einer verschiebungbezfiglichen Hilfsvarianten mit der gleichen Differentialordnung wie diejenigen der Spannung. Es werden numerische L6sungen wie im Beispiel des Verhaltens der Abh/ingigkeit der Schwingungsfrequenz und der Spannung-Mode-Gestalt dargestellt.

He has authored the textbook Fundamentals of the Finite Element Method that was published by Macmillan in 1986. Since his retirement from WPI in 1996, he teaches a mechanics of materials course each year and is currently writing the fifth draft of an introductory textbook with the co-author. In 1983 he received the WPI Board of Trustees' Award for Outstanding Teaching. He received his B.S. in 1955 and an M.S. in 1960 in Mechanical Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and a Ph.D. in Engineering Mechanics from the Department of Metallurgy, Mechanics and Materials Science at Michigan

This paper presents a study module that is incorporated into a formal introductory undergraduate level course on finite element theory and practice. The module consists of an Integrative Project and Homework Exercises based upon sophomore level education in mechanics of materials. The objective of the module is to support the teaching of the finite element method and to emphasize assumptions and limitations in the application of the technique.

Java has recently emerged as a powerful programming language for developing platform-independent, interactive and computational based software that can be used on the WorldWide Web through a Java-enabled Web browser. The paper introduces the Java programming language, its advantages and disadvantages, and its characteristics for developing interactive instructional applications on the WorldWide Web. The interactive and computational capabilities of Java are demonstrated through a simple matrix assembly applet (a piece of networked software). This applet allows the student to assemble element equations into the global (assemblage) equations for the finite element method (FEM). The matrix assembly applet features a graphical user-friendly interface, on-line help and interactive feedback. The authors are currently using Java to develop a prototype interactive learning tool for the onedimensional bar element. The interactive learning tool for finite element method is called FEMur-CAL (Finite Element Method universal resource Computer-Assisted Learning). This FEM tool does not replace the conventional classroom experiences, but provides supplementary instruction to students who need extra help. The prototype will be integrated into the 'Learn the Finite Element Method' component of the Finite Element Method universal resource (FEMur).

This paper is aimed at developing a new approach to analyzing statically indeterminate reactions at supports, as well as the slopes and deflections, of beams. The approach uses a set of four general formulas, derived using singularity functions. These formulas are expressed in terms of shear forces, bending moments, distributed loads, slopes, and deflections of a beam having a constant flexural rigidity and carrying typical loads. These loads include (a) a bending moment and a shear force at the left, as well as at the right, end of the beam; (b) a concentrated force, as well as a concentrated moment, somewhere on the beam; and (c) a uniformly, as well as a linearly varying, distributed force over a portion of the beam. The approach allows one to treat reactions at supports (even supports not at the ends of a beam) as concentrated forces or moments, where corresponding boundary conditions at the points of supports are to be imposed. This feature allows one to readily determine reactions at supports as well as slopes and deflections of beams. A beam needs to be divided into segments for study if it contains discontinuities in slope at hinge connections or different flexural rigidities in different segments. Several examples are included to illustrate the new approach.