1 - Computational modelling

Abstract

The finite element method (FEM) has developed into a key technology in the modelling and simulation of advanced engineering systems in various fields such as housing, transportation, and communications. A good understanding of computational modelling and simulation techniques plays an important role in developing such advanced systems in a rapid and cost effective way. The procedure of computational modelling using the FEM broadly consists of four steps‑namely, modeling of the geometry, meshing (discretization), specification of material property, specification of boundary, and initial and loading conditions. Depending on the software used, there are many ways to create a proper geometry in the computer for the finite element (FE) mesh. Points can be created simply by keying in the coordinates, whereas lines and curves can be created by connecting the points or nodes. Mesh generation is a very important task of the pre-process. Information, such as element connectivity, must be created during the meshing for use later in the formation of the FEM equations. Property of materials can be defined either for a group of elements or each individual element, if needed. Boundary, initial and loading conditions play a decisive role in solving the simulation. Inputting these conditions is usually done easily using commercial pre-processors, and it is often interfaced with graphics. Users can specify these conditions either to the geometrical or to the elements or grids.