Object-oriented finite element programming-the importance of data modelling

A C++ implementation of a finite element class system and its links to a gr aphical model of a structure are described. The principles underlying the f inite element and graphical class systems are outlined, together with the r easoning behind the design. Two of the key points are (i) the finite elemen t classes have a "lean" interface; (ii) the finite element objects (e.g. no des and elements) are distributed around the graphical model objects (e.g. points, lines, sub-structures). Some of the advantages of adopting such an approach are outlined with reference to user interaction, mesh generation, and sub-structuring. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd and Civil-Comp Ltd. All rights reserved.