Special Session: State-of-the-Art in Application of Finite Element Numerical Solutions to Engineering Problems

Abstract

This session features some of Dr. Kamyar Haghighis colleagues, previous students, and Peers to bring to light the State-of-the-art in application of Finite Element (FEM) numerical solutions to engineering problems. Advanced adaptive finite element analysis of deterministic and stochastic problems in Power and Machinery (PM), Food Process Engineering (FPE), Soil and Water engineering (SW), Biological Engineering (BE), Structures and Environment (SE), Nanotechnology and other Emerging Areas (EA), as well as International perspectives on FEM education and application (INT, ED) are presented and discussed. The noteworthy, deep and broad contributions of Dr. Haghighi to this important field of Information and Electrical Technologies (IET) that uniquely applies across divisional boundaries, and his pioneering role in shaping the Society's Technical Group expertise in FEM via IET-217 are highlighted by his colleagues. Before assuming the position of the Director of Freshmen Engineering at Purdue University and becoming the Chair of the Engineering Education Department at that institution, Dr. Haghighis research has focused on design automation, finite element modeling and analysis of agricultural processes and products, and mechanical computer-aided engineering. Dr. Haghighi has mentored numerous MS. Ph.D., and Post-doctoral research associates, in all areas of development and application of finite element modeling (PM, SW, FPE, BE, ED, EA, IET) to solve engineering problems from the nanoscale to the scale of aquifers. Former students enjoy prestigious positions in industry, academy and government, including at KBE+, ASET Services, Ansys, Samsung, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Purdue University, University of Maryland and the South Florida Water Management District (SFWCD). Session organizers and contributors are indebted to Professor Haghighis indelible contributions to FEM modeling, endless dynamism, tireless enthusiasm for progress and unparalleled inspirational spirit.