Course detail

Numerical Methods III

FSI-SN3 Acad. year: 2025/2026 Winter semester

The course gives an introduction to the finite element method as a general computational method for solving differential equations approximately. Throughout the course we discuss both the mathematical foundations of the finite element method and the implementation of the involved algorithms.

The focus is on underlying mathematical principles, such as variational formulations of differential equations, Galerkin finite element method and its error analysis. Various types of finite elements are introduced.

Language of instruction

Czech

Number of ECTS credits

5

Supervisor

doc. Ing. Petr Tomášek, Ph.D.

Department

Institute of Mathematics

Entry knowledge

Differential and integral calculus for multivariable functions. Fundamentals of functional analysis. Partial differential equations. Numerical methods, especially interpolation, quadrature and solution of systems of ODE. Programming in MATLAB.

Rules for evaluation and completion of the course

Graded course-unit credit is awarded on the following conditions: Active participation in practicals and elaboration of assignments. Participation in the lessons may be reflected in the final mark.

If we measure the classification success in percentage points, then the grades are: A (excellent): 100--90, B (very good): 89--80, C (good): 79--70, D (satisfactory): 69--60, E (sufficient): 59--50, F (failed): 49--0.


Attendance at lectures is recommended, attendance at seminars is required. Absence from lessons may be compensated by the agreement with the teacher supervising the seminars.

Aims

The aim of the course is to acquaint students with the mathematical principles of the finite element method and an understanding of algorithmization and standard programming techniques used in its implementation.


In the course Numerical Methods III, students will be made familiar with the finite element method and its mathematical foundations and use this knowledge in several individual projects.

The study programmes with the given course

Programme N-MAI-P: Mathematical Engineering, Master's, compulsory

Type of course unit

 

Lecture

26 hours, optionally

Syllabus

The Finite Element Method in 1D:



  • Variational Formulation

  • Finite Element Approximation

  • Derivation of a Linear System of Equations

  • Computer Implementation

  • A Priori Error Estimate

  • A Posteriori Error Estimate & Adaptive Finite Element Methods


The Finite Element Method in 2D:



  • Variational Formulation

  • Finite Element Approximation

  • Derivation of a Linear System of Equations

  • The Isoparametric Mapping

  • Different Types of Finite Elements

  • Computer Implementation (Data Structuring, Mesh Generation)


Time-Dependant Problems


Abstract Finite Element Analysis



  • Functional Spaces

  • Abstract Variational Problem & Galerkin Method

  • The Lax-Milgram Lemma

  • Galerkin Orthogonality, Best Approximation Property

Computer-assisted exercise

13 hours, compulsory

Syllabus

Seminars will follow the lectures. Students work on assigned projects under the guidance of an instructor.