Select and apply appropriate computational and analytical techniques to model the complex problem presented, recognising the limitations of the techniques employed.

A uniform Steel strut $($material Modulus of Elasticity $200$ GN$/$m$2,$ Poisson$$s Ratio $0\mathrm{.}3)$ of length $0\mathrm{.}5$m and width $100$ mm is restrained as appropriate at one end and under an axial tensile load of $25$ KN applied to the other end face.

It has been initially designed with a thickness of $5$mm$.$ This gives a hand calculated stress value of $50$ MN$/$ m$2,$ which is a quarter of the material$$s Yield Stress, of $200$ MN$/$m$2,$ giving a factor of safety of four. Conduct computer FEA simulations applying element types $($tetrahedral$,$ hexahedral$)$ and a range of element sizes $(2$mm$,5$mm & $10$mm$),$ presenting findings in a tabulated format.

The strut now requires a round ended slot in the centre, right through, of Length

L $(35)$and width W$(6).$ Determine a thickness of strut of the same length, width and material, capable of withstanding the same tensile force with the same factor of safety. Assume Von Mises failure criterion apply, i$.$e$.$ the maximum Von Mises $($unaveraged$)$ stress should not exceed $50$ MN$/$m$2.$ Your final thickness must be an integer millimetre value to use standard size material. Apply knowledge of engineering principles to the solution of the complex problem.