Object-Oriented Implementation of Finite Element Methodology

A modular object-oriented framework for finite element method is presented. The framework represents an abstract implementation of the finite element methodology. This ensures that minimal changes are required when extending the software to add new element type and analysis capability. The modular nature of the framework enables easy maintanence and reuse of the software. Furthermore, it ensures that the changes required for extension and maintanence of the software are local in nature. The framework was implemented to show the effectiveness of the approach and tested by implementing simple elements and solvers. The potential for easy extension of the software to cover all varieties of boundary value problems and solver algorithms is discussed.