U.S.-Venezuela Collaborative Research: Finite Element Software Development Using Computer Algebra Systems

Colorado School Of Mines, Golden CO

Investigators

Abstract

0106665 Griffiths This is a collaborative project between Dr. G. Vaughn Griffiths, Colorado School of Mines, and Dr. Miguel Cerrolaza, Central University of Venezuela. The proposal is focussed on improving the accuracy and efficiency of engineering analysis software, specifically the finite element method, by exploiting the power of Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) to generate and simplify lengthy and complex algebraic expressions. These will be output directly into a high level computer language, to produce a public domain library of routines that will benefit engineering practitioners and software developers. The interests of the collaborators complement each other with minimal overlap. The priority of the US group resides in software development for classical elasticity, while the Venezuelan group has a particular interest in bio-engine applications, with both groups intending to replace traditional numerical integration of finite element matrices by closed form expressions. The outcome of this work will be a public-domain suite of subprograms that will be available to all developers and users of FE software.