KEYNOTE PAPER - CURRENT AND FUTURE-TRENDS IN FINITE-ELEMENT ANALYSIS

Since its inception, finite element analysis (FEA) has expanded in terms of ease of use, integration with other mechanical computer-aided engineering (MCAE) technologies, and advanced analysis capabilities. Advances in user interface, graphics, and solid modelling make FEA packages more user-friendly and more appropriate for wider usage. The emergence of open systems, standards, and interfaces to CAD and other analysis packages has served to integrate FEA with other MCAE technologies. Advanced analysis capabilities, particularly in the area of nonlinearities, allow users to model and analyse not only product designs, but also manufacturing processes, such as metal-forming operations. In the future, FEA will continue to expand along these trends to meet the changing needs of its users.