An algorithmic framework for flexible finite element-based structural modeling

A framework is presented that provides new levels of computational flexibility for general finite element-based structural modelling. The approach is based on object-oriented programming methods in which the classes defining the framework represent both traditional and non-traditional finite element modelling abstractions. The framework supports a wide range of algorithmic methods and techniques: degree of freedom- and element-based, iterative and direct algorithms are accommodated for solving linear and non-linear problems in static and dynamic contexts. In order to adapt the solution to factors including the modelling assumptions, the required levels of efficiency and accuracy, and variations in a model in space and over time, algorithms can be selected and changed dynamically, and distinct algorithms can be used in different parts of a model. An evaluation of the framework using various criteria shows that in addition to enabling new kinds of efficiencies, it exhibits performance comparable to traditional implementations in executing fundamental computations.