Title: How finite element analysis benefits from interactive computer graphics

Authors: Thomas Fruhauf, Kennet Karlsson

Addresses: Technische Hochschule Darmstadt, Fachgebiet Graphisch-Interaktive Systeme, Wilhelminenstrasse 7, 64283 Darmstadt, Germany. ' Franhofer-Institut fiir Graphische Datenverarbeitung Wihelminenstrasse 7,64283 Darmstadt, Germany

Abstract: This paper proposes interactive computer graphics techniques for enhancements in finite element analysis. It identifies drawbacks in traditional post-processing, and outlines how today|s complex FE applications can be processed more efficiently with dedicated visualisation hardware and software. User interaction techniques from the on-line visualisation level up to the display level are discussed in detail. Such interactions with the visualisation system provide the basis for an improved FE analysis. Accomplished by techniques for direct interaction with data via modern 3D-interaction devices, the user is enabled to analyse complex multi-dimensional FE data effectively. Since a specialisation in hardware and software results in a heterogeneous simulation and visualisation environment, a sensible integration of the components is needed. Therefore distributed visualisation as well as application oriented interfaces are the appropriate instruments to take use of each components advantages.

Keywords: finite element visualisation; interaction devices; simulation; visualisation; user interaction; interactive computer graphics; finite element analysis; FEA; post-processing; finite element method; FEM.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCAT.1994.062516

International Journal of Computer Applications in Technology, 1994 Vol.7 No.3/4/5/6, pp.140 - 150

Published online: 09 Jun 2014 *

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