This book is intended as an essential study aid for the finite element method. Based on the
free computer algebra system Maxima the authors offer routines for symbolically or numerically
solving problems in the context of plane truss and frame structures allowing readers to check
classical 'hand calculations' on the one hand and to understand the computer implementation of
the method on the other. The mechanical theories focus on the classical one-dimensional
structural elements i.e. bars Euler-Bernoulli and Timoshenko beams and their combination to
generalized beam elements. Focusing on one-dimensional elements reduces the complexity of the
mathematical framework and the resulting matrix equations can be displayed with all components
and not merely in the form of a symbolic representation. In addition the use of a computer
algebra system and the incorporated functions e.g. for equation solving allows readers to
focus more on the methodology of the finite element method andnot on standard procedures.
