Finite element codes for microcomputers—A review

Compwers & Sfnurwcs Vol. 24. No. 4. pp. 657-682, Printed in Cheat Britain.

FINITE

004s7949186 Pqamon

1986

ELEMENT

53.00 + 0.00 Journals Ltd.

CODES FOR MICROCOMPUTERSA REVIEW JAROSLAVMACKERLE

Link8ping Institute of Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, S-581 83 Linkiiping, Sweden (Received 25 Februury 1986)

Abstract-A wide variety of finite element computer programs are currently being used in different fields of engineering. The aozcptancc of microcomputers in structural analysis and design is becoming more and more popular these days as the price for hardware is decreasing dramatically. New programs specially suitable for the microcomputer environment have been/are under development in many countries. The development started some eight years ago. The main drawbacks of microcomputers in comparison to larger machines are the computing speed, single-task processing and limited storage. Among the main advantages is a user-friendly environment and an inexpensive graphics. Alphanumeric and graphical interactive facilities of microcomputers are now taken for granted. The user need not be a computer expert to take the advantage of this analysis tool. The paper is concerned with a review of programs, general purpose as well as special purpose, developed for microcomputers in different countries. The programs described in the following sections have been extracted from the structural mechanics database MAKEBASE, developed by the author.

INTRODUCIION

The expansion and popularity of the use of micrommnt~ters in research and entinecrinu activities has ___~‘___ ____ o ____._____ __-_ _____ resulted in large-scale developments of related software. Implementation of the finite element method on microcomputers is resulting in much more widespread employment of this technique. The use of the fmite element software is no longer restricted to large companies but also the individuals are becoming familiar with this technique. Microcomputers and the finite element technique have become an important analysis tool applicated in the field of structural mechanics. Not many review papers about the finite element programs for microcomputers are available in the literature. The reader is referred to [l-3]. For papers . .. ..* _. c . . _. . . * r

____

I

___

_________

____

computers in general see [4-181. The objective of this paper is to review the software based on the finite element method, and written for microcomputers.

The descriptive part for each program consists of the following sections: -program name -source for program information -program category (program origin, application) -program description -element library -material library -boundary conditions and loading -notable items -nre/nostorocessing . 1 I. -program limitatic ons -hardware rGrtUL12ments --A-implement ted on document, ation.

status,

Two program categories according to the user’s point of view are represented in the survey: -programs serving primarily as an educational or a research tool, often available for a nominal fee for other users for non-commercial applications; -programs commercially available, tested and fully documented.

FINITE ELEMENTPROGRAMSFOR MICROCOMPUTERS

This review of finite element programs for microcomputers consists of two parts, a descriptive part and a tabular one. The tabular presentation is not as detailed as the descriptive section; it can serve for a more convenient comparison of different programs and for a ‘quick’ dissemination of programs according to their capabilities requested. 651

The originators of these programs are many, their motivation and qualification varies. Programs chosen for this paper have been developed in different countries within universities, at different research institutes, consulting companies and software houses. The programs presented are extracted from the finite element/boundary element structural mechanics

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database MAKEBASE [ 19-201 being currently developed by the author at the Linkiiping Institute of Technology. This database contains in present detailed information about 1000 FE/BE programs and about 12,000 literature references on the subject of finite element/boundary element techniques (theory and application). The updating is on a daily basis. The programs in the survey are: AEC-PC (Sweden), ANSYS-PC/LINEAR (U.S.A.), APOLLO (U.S.A.), B (Australia), BASIS (Italy), CAEFRAME (U.S.A.), CAEPIPE (U.S.A.), CASTOR-MICRO (France), CEDRUS (Switzerland), COSMOS/F (France), COSMOS/USA (U.S.A.), DIANA (The Netherlands), ESA (Belgium), FEMFAM (West FESDEC (Canada), FINITE/GP Germany), (U.S.A.), FRAME (Canada), IBA (Italy), IISS (Italy), IMAGES 2D, 3D (U.S.A.), LIBRA (U.S.A.), microABAQUS (U.S.A.), MICROFEAP (Thailand), MICSTRAN (India), MICRO-SMIS (Greece), MICRO STRESS (U.K.), MSC/pal (U.S.A.), NISA/DISPLAY (U.S.A.), NOLINA (U.K.), OLIFINEST (Italy), PLANEAXI/MICRO (U.K.), PLATE (Austria), PORTSMOUTHMICRO (U.K.), SAP80 (U.S.A.), SAP86 (U.S.A.), SMAP (Australia), SPACEFRAME (Austria), STAPOG (U.S.A.), STRAND/AUS (Australia), SUPERSAP (U.S.A.) and TITOU (France). Program name: AEC-PC

Source for program information: AEC, Advanced Engineering Computation, Friit%stegat 5,421 3 1 VHstra Friilunda, Sweden. Program category: program origin-consulting company. Status-fully operational. Applicationlinear static analysis of beams, grids, frames, slabs and walls; free vibration and buckling of beams; stability analysis of frames. Program description: several special purpose programs are available. PCBEAM is a designer beam program for static, free vibrations and buckling analysis. PCGRID is a designer gridwork program for static analysis. PCFRAME is a program for 2D frame analysis. PCSLAB is a program for bending analysis of rectilinear plates. PCWALL is a program for in-plane analysis of rectilinear plates. No user instructions are needed for these programs since input are easily entered through the user’s responses to prompting questions on the CRT screen. Incore solution; for the program PCWALL the out-of-core solver option is available. Element library: truss, beam, membrane and plate elements (depending on the program used). Material library: isotropic and composite materials (PCBEAM), isotropic linear elastic. Anisotropic material properties may be handled by PCSLAB and PCWALL. Boundary conditions and loading: point and distributed loads, moment loads, fixed and elastic supports. Thermal loads are permitted in

PCWALL. Multiple load cases and load case combination. Notable items: sandwich beams can be analyzed (shear deformations included). Reinforced concrete slabs and walls can be analyzed. Pre/postprocessing: no generators are available. Results may be inspected on the CRT screen and printed or plotted. Program limitations: max. 100 nodes, 100 elements and 10 load cases (PCGRID, PCFRAME). Hardware requirements: 320 KB RAM (PCBEAM, PCGRID, PCFRAME), 512 KB RAM (PCSLAB, PCWALL), math co-processor (8087 or 82807). Optional-printer, hard disk, graphics devices Implemented on: IBM PC/XT/AT and compatibles. Documentation: menu-driven programs. Demo versions are available. User Manuals with worked examples. Program name: ANSYS-PC/LINEAR

[21]

Source for program information: Swanson Analysis Systems, Inc., Marketing and Training, Johnson Road, P.O. Box 65, Houston, PA 15342-0065, U.S.A. Program category: program origin+zonsulting company. Status-fully developed. Applicationlinear static analysis, modal analysis including a spectrum option. Program description: the program is a subset of ANSYS, well-known general purpose finite element program. ANSYS-PC/LINEAR is a complete program including preprocessing, solution part and postprocessing. Solution printout, including nodal displacements and element stresses, can be stored for future reference. The program is written in FORTRAN, a compiled, rather than interpretive, language. All vector, character manipulation, matrix, disk input/output routines and graphics routines are written in assembly code. Floating point operations in the co-processor are done in parallel with other operations. Wave-front or frontal solution method. ANSYS-PC/LINEAR is available on a license basis. Element library: the program contains 13 elements of ANSYS element library. There are 2D and 3D solids, shells, beams and spars. lD, 2D and 3D spring and mass elements. 3D stiffness or mass matrix. Material library: isotropic, linear elastic material properties.Temperature&pendence is permitted. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Static loads. Nodal loads, pressure, centrifugal and thermal loads can be handled. Notable items: ANSYS-PC/LINEAR model input data can be transferred on to ANSYS for analysis on larger computers. Full color display. Ten colors available from four-color monitor.

Finite element codes for microcomputers-a

An animation capability. The program is tested using the applicable subset of the full ANSYS quality assurance criteria. The test set for PC/LINEAR is 110 tests at present. Pre/postprocessing: preprocessor PREP7 (batch or interactive mode of operation) creates data requested for the analysis, i.e. element generation, generation of boundary conditions and loading, and material properties. In addition, a file of commands for uploading to a larger computer can be created. Element reordering for wavefront reduction. Database language, for data manipulation. Graphics display of geometry and loads, hidden-line capability. POST 1 is a postprocessor of ANSYS. The storage, sorting, selecting, printing and plotting functions are available. A special program DISPLAY can display any saved plots. This program also supports animation of these plots. All solution parameters can be plotted. Program limitations: linear static wavefront of 288 DOF, modal wavefront of 200 DOF. Maximum node number x DOF/node max. 32,000, Hardware requirements: 512 KB minimum memory, 10 MB hard disk capacity, floating point coprocessor (8087 for PC/XT and compatibles, 80287 for PC/AT and compatibles). PC DOS operating system (Rev 2.1 or greater for PC/XT, Rev 3.0 or greater for PC/AT), standard medium resolution IBM color graphics monitor, parallel printer port. Implemented on: IBM PC/XT, IBM PC/AT and compatibles (i.e. COMPAQ, Leading Edge). Documentation: on-line documentation. Explanation for each command. Description of step-by-step input procedure. Sections of existing manuals for ANSYS. Program name: APOLLO [22-231 Source for program information: Civil Engineering Dept, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, U.S.A. (att. S. N. Pollalis). Program category: program origin-university. Status-fully operational. Application-3D design of reinforced concrete buildings, static and dynamic analysis. Program description: APOLLO is a special-purpose program for the applications in the computeraided design of concrete 3D buildings. The code is in modular design. APOLLO was originally developed for VAX 1l/780, and later translated into a MicroSoft FORTRAN to run on IBM personal computers. The program was split to serial subprograms communicating through I/O. APOLLO is consistent with notation and solution algorithms of SAP IV and NONSAP. Element library: beam elements. Shear walls are modeled by 2D plane stress elements, or by an equivalent braced system. Material library: linear elastic material properties. C.A.S %,4-l

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Boundary conditions and loading: all nodes above the foundation are assumed to be free in all directions. The user can provide boundary changes, even for the foundation nodes. Special kinematic conditions can be imposed, such as the rigid movement of the concrete slabs. The structural loads are determined by the AC1 318 code and by the information provided by the user. Concentrated loads on any node. Live load, dead load-a gravity load analysis or a lateral load analysis may be handled. Notable items: a cross-section selection database. Subroutines for member design and detailing are available. Pre/postprocessing: the preprocessor contains a mesh generator for the building generation consisting of prismatic elements, and a load generator according to the AC1 code. The mesh generator is associated with computer graphics. Automatic node numbering. The output is given according to the user’s needs, graphics files are provided for plotting. The output gives total structural configurations showing the different stress conditions in different colors and design details of members. Program limitations: not known to the author. Hardware requirements: not known to the author. Implemented on: IBM PC. Documentation: not known to the author. proSram name: B for program information: School of Civil Engineering, University of New South Wales, Kensington 2033, N.S.W., Australia (att. R. Lawther). Program category: program origin-university. Status-fully operational. Application-stability analysis of 2D frames. Program description: B is a Pascal coded program for calculating the buckling loads of plane frame structures. All I/O is via text files, an interactive preprocessor can be used to prepare input data. The resulting linear eigenvalue equations are solved by the power method of iteration. The program is also available in a version to calculate free vibration modes of plane frames. This version is called V and its preprocessor VDATA. In-core skyline factorization, multiplication, forward and back substitution. Element library: rod/beam elements. Material library: linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: static load, nodal loading. Pie/postprocessing: BDATA is a preprocessor for input file preparation. Free-format input. Program limitations: approximately 400 DOF (130 nodes). Hardware requirements: the program is designed to run on microcomputers using PC-DOS (TurboSource

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Pascal), MS-DOS (TurboPascal), (Pascal) operating systems. Implemented on: not known. Documentation: B User Manual and Manual under preparation.

J~ostiv p-system

Program

Progrom nome: BASIS [24-251

for program information: Istituto di Scienza delle Costruxioni, Universita di Genova, Via Montallegro, 1, 16145 Genova, Italy and Nuova Italsider S.p.A., Via Corsica, 4, 16128 Genova, Italy. Program category: program origin-university, research institute. Status-fully operational. Application-special purpose program for planning and design of buildings. Program description: BASIS (Building Activities Steel Integrated System) is a system for planning and design of steel structures. The program is organized into distinct modules and logical interconnections by means of the DATA BASE. The CAD system is composed of a set of functions written in MS-BASIC. Each function accesses to a sector&d DATA BASE and by means of interactive graphic input/output performs a proper logical operations, i.e. description of the geometry of the building, definition of the vertical and horizontal actions, analysis, etc. The program is intended for the designer, leaving him in complete control of the operating choices. The program use consists in combining, according to simple rules, some ‘signs’, which represent the essential structural elements such as columns, main and secondary beams, braces and the complementary members such as curtain walls, windows, etc. For the structural analysis the CAD not only calculates the stresses but also searches for the least favorable load conditions. Element library: rod/beam elements, shear panel. Material library: isotropic, linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: static analysis only. Concentrated and pressure loading. Load combination may be handled. Notable items: BASIS is a whole CAD system developed for personal computers. To obtain solutions that respond more closely to the designer’s idea it is possible to make modifications of any kind to the design carried out, repeating one or more functions. An extensive use of graphics. Pre/postprocessing: interactive graphics is used. Mesh generation, load generation, boundary condition generation. Display of geometry, loading, boundary conditions. Program limitations: not known to the author. Hardware requirements: MS-DOS operating system, a floppy disk, and a graphics display. Implemented on: IBM PC, Olivetti PC. Documentation: User’s Manual. Sources

MACI(ERLE Program name: CAEFRAME

Source for program information: SST Systems, Inc., 355 West Olive Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94086, U.S.A. Program category: program origin-software company. Status-fully operational. Applicationstatic analysis of 3D frame structures. Program description: CAEFRAME is a special purpose program for 3D analysis of frame structures with plates, pipe and equipment supports, and plate and shell structures. This integrated system consists of a preprocessor, analysis part and postprocessor, in addition to an accounting program that keeps track of software usage time. The program is complete interactive. Screenoriented, menu-driven input. In-core solution procedure. Bandwidth minimization routine in the main-processor solution procedure. Direct factorization. Out-of-core solution procedure for use with very large models. Program versions 1.01-l .03 are available. Element library: the library contains beam, truss, plate and spring elements. The rigid offset option is available for both beam and plate elements. Material library: isotropic, linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Local coordinate systems. Loading capability: joint loads, seismic loads, non-uniform distributed loads, thermal loads, and concentrated loads at any number of points along the span. Load combination can bc handled. Notable items: built-in library of standard AISC sections and materials for easy data retrieval. AISC code checks. Input units in English, metric, or a combination of both. Simultaneous use of text and color screens during model generation for instant feedback. User-defined libraries of sections and materials may be created. Pre/postprocessing: completely interactive preprocessor and postprocessor is included in the package. Preprocessor capabilities: screen-oriented, menu-driven input; mesh generation; generation of load and boundary conditions; model can be displayed from any view point; zooming; usage of color graphics. Postprocessor capabilities: plot/display of deflected shape, stresses and code check results; elements exceeding allowables can be displayed; user-controlled deflection magnification; usage of color graphics. Program limitations: approximately 2700 DOF for beam problems or half of that number for plate/shell problems (not for version 1.03). Hardware requirements: 640 KB RAM, Intel 8087 math co-processor, TECMAR Graphics Master board, color graphics monitor, monochrome/ printer adapter board, graphics printer. Version

Finite element codes for microcomputers-a 1.02 runs on both one-screen and two-screen systems. Microsoft DOS 2.10 operating system. Implemented on: IBM PC/XT/AT systems. Documentation: Built-in help information. User’s and verification manuals. Program name: CAEPIPE Source for program information: SST Systems, Inc. 355 West Olive Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94086, U.S.A. Program category: program origin-software company. Status-fully operational. Applicationlinear static and dynamic 3D analysis of process/power piping systems. Program description: CAEPIPE is a special purpose program for 3D analysis of piping systems with verification of results against design rules in ANSI B31.3 code and ANSI B31.1 code respectively. CAEPIPE is an integrated system. It contains a preprocessor, an analysis part and a postprocessor, in addition to an accounting program that keeps track of software usage time. In-core solution, profile minimization, direct factorization. Element library: element library includes pipe elements, elbows, standard fittings, elastic supports and hangers. Material library: isotropic, linear elastic material properties. Temperature-dependence is allowed. Boundary conditions and loading: static and dynamic loads. Mechanical and thermal loads may be handled. Nodal loads, pressure, volume loads, initial stress/strain. Load combination is possible. Prescribed boundary conditions. Multipoint constraints. Local coordinate systems. Skewed restraints and guides may be modeled. Notable items: Input units in English, metric, or a combination of both. Built-in library of standard pipes and materials for easy data retrieval. Builtin library of stress intensity factors. Specific screens provided to input data for each ANSI B3 1.3/ANSI B3 I. 1 load group. Automatic hanger selection from built-in ITT Grinnell and other reputable pipe hanger catalogs. Usage of color graphics. Expansion joints of various types may be handled. Built-in library of standard insulation materials along with their weight density. Pre/postprocessing: completely interactive preprocessor and postprocessor is included in the package. Preprocessor capabilities: screen-oriented, menu-driven input; mesh and load generation; automatic generation of a series ‘of runs and rigid member specification; high-resolution color graphics; simultaneous use of text and color screens during model generation for instant feedback; error-checking; graphics display of model from any view-point. Postprocessor capabilities: plot/display of deflected shapes, stresses and code check results; maximum deflections and

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stresses highlighted in color graphics; selective display of stresses on color screen; usercontrolled deflection magnification. Program limitations: up to 450 nodes can be used. In systems with many branches up to 200 nodes can be used. Hardware requirements: 640 KB RAM, Intel 8087 math co-processor, monochrome/color graphics monitor, TECMAR Graphics Master board, graphics printer. One-screen or two-screen systems. Microsoft DOS 2.10 operating system. Implemented on: IBM PC/XT/AT systems. Documentation: built-in help information. User’s and verification manuals. Program name: CASTOR-MICRO

(26-271

Source for program information: CETIM, 52 Avenue Felix Louat, 60304 Senlis, France. Program category: program origin-Technical Center, research institute. Status-fully operational. Application-static elastic and thermal analysis of 2D structures, static and dynamic analysis of 3D frames, static and dynamic analysis of 3D beam and shell structures. Program description: the part of the CASTOR system developed for microcomputers contains different programs. CASTOR BE-2D is a program for 2D static and thermal analysis of plane and axisymmetric structures. CASTOR BE-3D is a program for the static and dynamic analysis of 3D frameworks. CASTOR BE-SD is a program for 3D static and dynamic analysis of beam and shell structures. Each program consists of preprocessors, an analysis module and postprocessors. BASIC language was used. Programs are chained, module design philosophy was used. After a current program module has performed the required operation another module is loaded. Data are transferred for storage on a disk. The equation solver implements a Gauss factorization algorithm. A skyline method with different blocks is used. Element library: membrane, beam, shell elements. Material library: isotropic, linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: static and dynamic loads. Concentrated loads, pressure, thermal loads. Boundary conditions can be prescribed. Notable items: bandwidth optimization. Special automatic meshing for shells. Pre/postprocessing: pre and postprocessors are parts of different analysis programs. Extensive data generation, free-format input. Results in form of displacements and stresses may be selected for printing/plotting. Group of different postprocessors, each of them specialized for one type of analysis. The plot of the deformed/ undeformed structure, and vector plots of principal stresses can be produced. Program limitations: 1500 nodes, 750 elements. The

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computer hardware sets the limit. If the core storrrge is not sufficient, the secondary storage is aut&atically used. Hardwaremquirements: 16 bits microcomputers, 5 12 KB-RAM, disk. Implemented on: HP 9845, HP 9836, HP 9816. Documentation: not known to the author. Program qme: CEDRUS [28]

Source for program information: CUBUS AG, Zurich, Switzerland (att. J. Theiler and G. Bar&. Program category: program origin-consulting company. Status-fully operational. Applicationstatic analysis and design of plates and slabs. Program description: CEDRUS is a special purpose program for the static analysis of plates and slabs. The program consists of three modules: SYSIN, SOLVE and RESULTS. Computational procedures are implemented in the SOLVE. Equation solver: Gauss elimination procedure, skyline reduction method. The solved system matrix is stored, so additional load cases can be analyzed easily. The program is written in PASCAL. Element library: plate triangular and quadrilateral elements with quadratic stress and cubic boundary displacement shape functions. Hybrid formulation. Material library: isotropic, linear elastic .material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Elastic foundation. Static loads. Mesh-independent line and point loads. Forces applied by prestressed cables may be introduced. Loading types producing influence fields for bending and twisting moments at the centroid of the element may be introduced. Linear combination of loading cases may be handled. Notable items: built-in automatic recognition of elements of the same type. The user has to remember not to generate more element types than necessary. Input concept is based on syntax diagrams. Pre/postprocessing: a graphical interactive preprocessor is available. Free-format input. The input file can be checked for syntax errors. Output in form of nodal deformations, and reactions together with bending and twisting moments. Contour plots or plots as a variation along a section through the structure. Program limitations: not known to the author. Hardware requirements: not known to the author. Implemented on: Apple III, HP-200 series. Documentation: two pages input scheme (contains all program capabilities). User’s Manual. Progrom nome: COSMOS/F

[29]

Source for program information: CACT, Centre d’assistance au calcul technique, 6-14, Rue la

MACKERLE Perouse, 75784 Paris, Cedex 16, France (att. P. Chapey). Program category: program origin-consulting company. Status-fully operational. Applicationlinear static and dynamic analysis of 3D structures. Program description: COSMOS is a general-purpose program for 3D static and dynamic analysis. The control language is in French, the results can be obtained in French, English or German. The program is written in BASIC and FORTRAN. Dynamic capabilities include eigenvalue solution, linear response analysis and spectrum analysis. Element library: element library contains beams, membranes, plates and shell elements. Special elements: pipes, elbow, spring, inactive elements. Material library: isotropic, linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions, elastic foundation. Mechanical and thermal loads are accepted. Nodal loads. Uniform loads, linear loads, trapezoidal loads, dead weight. Load case combination may be handled. Notable items: node renumbering. Earthquake analysis of structures. Free-format input. Pre/postprocessing: interactive graphics pre and postprocessor is included in the package. Mesh and load generators are available. Analysis results can be plotted/displayed. Zooming, choice of the point of the view. Program limitations: spatial structures up to 1000 nodes, 2500 beams or 1250 shells. Hardware requirements: minimum 512 KB RAM, hard disk minimum 5 MB, printer, plotter. MS/DOS, UNIX operating system. Implemented on: version 4 (in BASIC) is implemented on HP serie 200 and 500. Version 5 (in FORTRAN) is implemented on IBM PC and compatibles. Documentation: User Manual. Program name: COSMOS/USA

Source for program information: SRAC, Structural Research and Analysis Corp. 1661 Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 100, Santa Monica, CA !WO4, U.S.A. Program category: program origin-research corporation. Status-fully operational. Applicationlinear static and dynamic analysis of general structures, heat transfer analysis, fluid flow, electrical and acoustical field problems. Program description: COSMOS is a general purpose program for the design and analysis of general structures. Static and dynamic analysis can be performed. Dynamic capabilities: vibration analysis, response spectrum analysis, response to steady state harmonic forcing functions. Field problems can be handled. Heat transfer,

Finite element codesfor microcomputers-a steady state or transient, considering the effects of conduction, radiation and convection may be analyzed. The program consists of CINEMA, a preprocessor mesh generator and postprocessor, MICROCOSM, an analysis program and MICROTAP, a heat transfer analysis program. The program modularity permits easy implementation of modifications and new features. MICROCOSM uses an active column equation solver, skyline technique. Out-of-core equation solver. Element library: truss, beam, membrane, axisymmetric, plate/shell and 3D solid elements are available. Special elements: 3D pipe, elbow, linear boundary element, rotational boundary element, rigid element. Material library: isotropic, linear elastic material properties. Temperaturedependence is permitted. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions, elastic foundation. Static and dynamic loads. Mechanical and thermal loads. Nodal forces, intermediate distributed and concentrated forces and moments on beams, surface pressure, gravity. Load case combination may be handled. Notable items: restart capability. Automatic renumbering. Color graphics application. The preprocessor will accept data in ANSYS format. Free-format input. Pre/postprocessing: interactive pre and postprocessor is included in the package. Mesh generator, load generator and generation of boundary conditions is possible. Commands input by the keyboard. The input data may be saved on external files for later processing. The preprocessor also contains a help file to provide correct command syntax as required. Model can be viewed at any stage. The postprocessor capabilities include 3D rotation, zooming and hidden surface removal. Deformed shape may be viewed. Program limitations: not known to the author. Hardware requirements: an IBM XT with 384KB Memory or IBM compatibles that run under MS DOS 1.0-3.0. Graphics will work only with an IBM or equivalent color graphics board. An 8087 co-processor is highly desirable. Implemented oni IBM PC/XT. Documentation: User Manual and Problem Verification Manual. Program name: DIANA [30-311

Source for program information: Institute for Building Materials and Building Structures (IIBC-TNO), P.O. BOX49, 2600 AA Delft, The Netherlands (att. G. M. A. Kusters). Program category: program origin-research institute. Status-fully operational. Applicationlinear and nonlinear static and dynamic analysis of general structures, heat transfer analysis. Program description: DIANA (Displacement

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Method Analyzer) is a comprehen&e-set of programs for linear and nonlinear static and dynamic analysis of 2D and 3D strua@res. The programs are written in FORTRAN&‘. Data management and dynamic memory %&cation is handled by FILOS, a dedicated package for DIANA. It manages and optimizes &e data flow between the various programs and the central database which contains all data for the appropriate analysis. DIANA-CONTROL controls loading and execution of other programs in a sequence which is derived from the usercommands. SCAN module is used to read the free-format input and to interpret usercommands. Dynamic program capabilities include: tigenvalue analysis, linear response analysis of structure to harmonic, impact or spectrum loads. Impact response by means of time integration may be examined also for’ geometrical and material nonlinearities. Geometric non-linearities include large deformation only. Equation solver: wave front technique, symmetric and nonsymmetric. Element library: element library contains all types of standard element types, i.e. beams, membranes, plates, shells, axisymmetric, and 3D solid elements. Special elements: shear panel, crack-tip element, pipe, elbow, spring, stiffeners, pre-stressed cables. Material library: isotropic and anisotropic linear material properties. Temperatureelastic dependence is permitted. Several material models are available for the description of plasticity, hardening and creep. Models are available also for rubber and soils. Nonlinear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions, multipoint constraint relations may be handled. Static and dynamic loads are accepted. Mechanical and thermal loads may be applied on the structure. One or several load cases. Nodal loads, pressure, volume loads, centrifugal, initial stress/strain, impact loads, deformation-dependent loads. Notable items: cracking of concrete may be simulated. Restart capability. User’s subroutines may be included-scientific users may compose special versions of particular parts of the DIANA for special type of computations. Automatic bandwidth reduction. High program modularity. Pre/postprocessing: communication between user and computer is by means of table-oriented, free-format input data and keyword-oriented commands. Preprocessor can be used for mesh generation. Various possibilities for graphical in and output are available. Passive graphics only. Program limitations: not known to the author. Hardware requirements: all systems with UNIX-V operating system.

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Implemented on: GEMINIX-micro under UNIX (GEMINIX is a trademark of TNO). This microcomputer is under development at TNO. It is based on the VME-bus. Several modules are presently available, i.e. CPUNIX (based on the MC68000 processor chip) and 512 KB DRAM module. GEMINIX makes nonlinear analysis in particular more accessible. MinicomputersVAX, Harris. Documentation: theoretical manuals, verification manual, user manual. Program name: ESA [32-371

Source for program information: SCIA, Steenweg 108, B-3912 Herk-de-Stad, Belgium (att. J.-P. Rammant). Program category: program origin-4onsulting company. Status-fully operational. Applicationlinear and nonlinear static analysis, linear dynamic analysis, heat transfer analysis. Program description: the ESA program system consists of separate modules that treat the linear and nonlinear static analysis, linear dynamic analysis and heat transfer analysis of 2D and 3D structures. A virtual data management technique has been implemented. Data and analysis results are all kept on disk in a library system composed of fixed pages. Currently treated information is kept in a buffer array which is present in the central core. The programming language is BASIC. Matrix operations are programmed in machine code, as well as searching, sorting and moving algorithms. The equation solver: a blocked Gaussian technique. Dynamic analysis: subspace iteration method, Stuerm sequence, modal superposition method, spectral response technique. Nonlinear analysis: Secans NewtonRaphson method. Element library: the element library contains all standard element types. 2D and 3D trusses and beams, 2D solids including axisymmetric elements and plates and 3D shells and solid elements are represented. Special elements: springs, reinforcing ribs, elements for heat transfer. Material library: isotropic and anisotropic, linear Plasticity-full elastic material properties. plastic behavior. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Mechanical and thermal loading. Static and dynamic loads may be handled. Distributed forces, concentrated forces, volume loads, centrifugal loads may be applied. Combination of load cases. Elastic foundation. Notable items: substructuring is possible. Bandwidth reduction scheme. Analysis of concrete structures. ESA can be linked to CAD-CAM software, i.e. an input from the AUTOCAD package is accepted. A steel construction design package has been developed. Pre/postprocessing: interactive, menu-driven prepro-

cessor facilitates data input. Text is in four languages. Mesh and load generators are available. Bach program module has an interactive graphics module to verify input or result interpretation. Extensive plotting capabilities are included. Program limitations: with minimum hardware configuration required-about 800 nodes (in 2D analysis) with a bandwidth around 80. Hardware requirements: minimum 256 KB RAM, 10 MB Winchester hard disk. Special plotter drivers have been developed for TEKTRONIX, HP, BENSON, CALCOMP, HOUSTON. MS-DOS or XENIX operating system. UNIX system under development. Implemented on: WANG PC or WANG 2200 computers, IBM PC and full compatibles. Documentation: user manuals. Program name: FEMFAM

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Source for program information: PROFEM GmbH, Salvatorstr 32, D-5100 Aachen, West Germany. Program category: program origin-research institute. Status-fully operational. Applicationlinear static analysis, heat transfer analysis. Program description: FEMFAM system consists of four parts: a preprocessor; a temperature field calculation part for linear and nonlinear, steady state and transient problems, also considering heat radiation, time-dependent heat sources and boundary conditions, phase change propagation, temperature-dependent properties and heat sources; a linear elastic calculation part; and a postprocessor for the numerical and graphical result presentation. The program is specially suited for thermo-mechanical coupled problems. Front solver with input-output minimization has been implemented. FEMFAM is written in HP-BASIC language. Element library: beam elements, membranes, plates and shells, axisymmetric elements and 20-node 3D solid element. Material library: isotropic and anisotropic, linear material properties. Temperatureelastic dependency is allowed. Boundary conditions and loading: skew boundary conditions are permitted. Mechanical and thermal loads may be applied. Nodal loads, pressure, volume loads, initial stress/strain, centrifugal loads. Combination of load cases is possible. Notable items: node renumbering. Cyclic symmetry. Restart capability. Failure criteria are included. User subroutines may be inserted. Pm/postprocessing: GENFAM and ERGFAM are interactive pre and postprocessor programs. Free-format input. Mesh and load generators are part of the package. Pre and postprocessor programs are fully working in the question-andanswer mode, all parts with dynamic array dimensioning. Numerical and graphical result

Finite element codes for microcomputers-a

presentation with advanced capabilities, i.e. hidden line/surface routines, plots with contour lines or color filling for displaying temperature or stress fields. Program limitations: size of the problem analyzed depends on memory available. For example, the analysis of model containing 300 3D, 20-node solid elements needs 32 MB external memory. Hardware requirements: 1.1 MB memory RAM, Winchester drive, graphics plotter. Implemented on: HP 9845B, HP 9000 series 200,300, 500. Documentation: User Manual. Program name: FESDEC Source

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for program information: H. G. Engineering, 260 Lesmill Road, Don Mills, Ontario M3B 2T5, Canada (att. D. Merrick). Program category: program origin-consulting company. Status-fully operational. Applicationlinear and nonlinear static analysis, linear dynamic analysis, heat transfer analysis. Program description: FESDEC is a general-purpose program for the static and dynamic analysis of 2D and 3D structures under mechanical and thermal loads. Dynamic capabilities include modal analysis, modal seismic response, forced harmonic response, transient modal response. Transient and steady-state heat conduction problems may be analyzed. Modular program design concept. FESDEC is written in HP BASIC. Results from each progam module are stored in the database. Memory management allows large models to be partitioned and stored on disk so that large problems can be solved. User interacts by means of menu and the use of special function keys., Solution method: Cholesky factorization with partitioning. Element library: the element library contains beam and truss elements, membrane elements (plane strain and plane stress), plate bending elements, shells, axisymmetric elements and 3D solid elements. Displacement and hybrid formulation. Special elements: straight, curved and tee pipe elements; grounded spring element; boundary heat transfer element. Material library: isotropic and anisotropic, linear elastic material properties. Elastic-plastic for 2D plates and axisymmetric problems. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed’boundary conditions. Multipoint constraint relations can be prescribed. Initial temperature distribution. Static and dynamic loads are permitted. Multiple load cases can be specified. Forces and moments can be applied to any DOF, pressure and line loads, centrifugal loads, self weight, temperature at nodes. Non-axisymmetric loads on axisymmetric solids may be applied. Load case combination. Load options for heat transfer

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analysis: nodal heat, surface heat flux, prescribed temperature, internal heat generation. Notable items: bandwidth optimizer. Modal parameters, structural coordinates and structural connectivity data can be transferred from the FESDEC data t&s to the SMS Structural Analysis data files. This capability allows access to the power of the SMS Structural Dynamic Modification and the sophisticated mode shape animated display. Restart option. Pre/postprocessing: the package includes its own pre and postprocessors. Screen and plotter graphics are used for checking the model and display results. Mesh generation, generation of boundary conditions and loading is possible. The input data is stored in a database for on-line editing, extending or printing. Many options for a graphical display are available. Plots of deformed/ undeformed structure, display of principal stresses, stress-contours or iso-therm plots. Program limitations: problems with up to 10,000 DOF can be handled. Max. 1500 nodes (coredependent), 60 load cases. Hardware requirements: Memory-min 187 KB. Mass storage-Winchester min 4.8 MB. Peripherals-flexible disk drive, plotter (optional). Implemented on: HP Series 200, Series 500 and HP 9845. Documentation: FESDEC User’s Manual, FESDEC Verification Manual. Program name: FINITEIGP

Source for program information: COADE, Engineering Software for Microcomputers, 8550 Katy Freeway, Suite 122, Houston, TX 77024, U.S.A. Program category: program origin--software house. Status-fully operational. Application-linear static analysis, heat transfer analysis, fluid flow problems. Program description: FINITE/GP is a program for the static, linear elastic analyis of 2D structures. Plane stress and plane strain problems may be handled. Axisymmetric and plane steady-state heat transfer problems (convection or conduction). Potential fluid flow problems (solving of Poisson equations). Disk-based data processing. All input data are stored in the same allocated memory area. Interactive mode of operation. An alternative batch-mode input using a word processor for input data preparation is also provided. Solution method: direct stiffness method, frontal solution scheme. An out-of-core solver is incorporated to handle large problems. Modular design philosophy, sections of the FINITE/GP can be purchased and used separately. Element library: element library contains beam, triangular and quadrilateral plate elements and axisymmetric elements. Special elements: fluid element, heat transfer element.

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Material library: isotropic and anisotropic, linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Multipoint constraint relations. Mechanical and thermal loads may be applied. Concentrated and distributed loads are permitted. Notable items: fluid flow analysis. Color graphics. Pre/postprocessing: MESHZD, DRAW, MODEL, SFE are available interactive pre and postprocessors. Mesh generation and generation of boundary conditions can be provided. Comprehensive plotting capabilities allow model verification as well as postprocessing of results. Stress contours, displacements, etc. can be displayed in color on the terminal. Stress file editor program allows the selective evaluation of individual element data. Program limitations: up to 2000 DGF, but larger problems have been successfully run. Hardware requirements: 512 KB main memory, mathematics co-processor, color graphics adapter and a dot matrix printer. Impkmented on: IBM PC and compatible microcomputers. Documentation: User’s Guide. Set of worked examples. Program name: FRAME

Source for program information: Softek Services Ltd, 2-5729 West Boukvard, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6M 3W8. Program category: program origin-software house. Status-fully operational. Application-analysis of grid structures, plane frames and truss structures. Program description: three different programs are available, G-FRAME, P-FRAME and SFRAME. G-FRAME is a program for analysis of planar structures with out-of-plane loads (grid analysis). P-FRAME is a program for analysis of plane frame and truss structures. This program also performs nonlinear analysis. Plastic analysis includes hinge formation, hinge unwinding and moment reduction due to axial forces. Stability analysis includes P-delta and determination of critical buckling loads. SFRAME is a program for 3D frames. Data may be entered or edited directly on the screen in a spreadsheet rowcolumn format. Data may be entered in any order. Solution methodChoieski decomposition. All calculations are kept in RAM (except for S-FRAME when the problem is larger than 56,000 stiffness elements). The solution solver optimizes on sparse matrices and checks singularities and ill-conditioned matrices. Bandwidth optimization may also be requested. Element library: Element library contains truss and beam elements and springs.

Material library: linear elastic material properties. Elastoplastic material for P-FRAME is permitted. Boundary conditions and loading: settlement or forced displacement. Local coordinate system. Mechanical and thermal loads may be applied. Horizontal, vertical and torsional loads. Selfweight. Notable items: color graphics. Pre/postprocessing: global and local data generation routines for the generation of all input data. Interactive and passive graphics. Display and plotting is possible. A special preprocessor for truss generation. Instant checking of virtually all input data. For plastic and stability analysis, animated graphics show hinge formation, member buckling and structure collapse mechanism. Dual monitor operation with text on one monitor and graphics on another is also supported. The output data can also be interfaced to a user-developed postprocessor. Program limitations: G-FRAME-800 members, 450 joints, 100 springs, 50 sections, 99 load cases and 99 load combinations. P-FRAME-960 members, 480 joints, 100 springs, 50 sections and 9 materials. 99 load cases, 99 load combinations. S-FRAME-500 members, 250 joints, 50 springs, 50 sections, 99 load cases and 99 load combinations. Hardware requirements: IPM PC/XT/AT and compatibles with two drives and 256 KB RAM minimum, math co-processor 8087 or 80287, IBM Color Graphics Adapter, Hercules Graphics Card. Graphics output device-Epson FXSO, Okidata 182, IBM Graphics printer. IBM PCDOS 2.0, 2.1, 3.0 and 3.1 operating system. Implemented on: IBM PC/XT/AT and compatibles. Documentation: User Manuals. Full program instructions, sample problems and verification report. Progrom name: IBA

Source for program information: Istituto di Scienxa delle Costruxioni, University of Rome, via de1 Pollaiolo I,00197 Roma, Italy (att. F. Braga and C. Fabrixi). Program category: program origin-university. Status-fully operational. Application-analysis of framed buildings under seismic loads. Program description: IBA (Interactive Building Analysis) is a special purpose program for the interactive analysis of framed buildings subjected to vertical and horizontal actions (wind and earthquake). The static and dynamic analysis may be performed. The spatial frames are treated as an assemblage of plane frames connected by diaphragms infinitely stiff in, and infinitely deformable out of, their own plane. The program is written in BASIC. IBA consists of a preprocessor, an analysis part and a postprocessor.

Finite element coda for microcomputers-a

The program is based on the matrix analysis, the pseudo-three-dimensional model has been implemented. Skyline storage technique. GaussJordan static condensation. Element library: beam, truss and boundary elements are available. All elements have infinitely rigid arm which allows for idealization of beams, columns, reinforced concrete shear walls, etc. Material library: linear elastic material prOpertieS. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Deformable foundations may be treated. Mechanical loads are accepted. Notable items: design of reinforced concrete struttures. Soil-structure interaction. Pre/postprocessing: the preprocessor and postprocessor is a part of the program. Model generation, numbering of nodes and elements, load generation, model checking. The preprocessor allows for data corrections and modifications. Input data and analysis results can be performed graphically. The postprocessor checks the equilibrium of forces at an overall level and at a local level. The IBA postprocessor is oriented to the design of RC structures. Program limitations: buildings with up to 20 stories and 40 vertical column lines can be analyzed. Hardware requirements: 58KB of RAM and two 320 KB floppy disks. Digitizer, plotter, graphics display. Implemented on: Olivetti M20, PDP 11, HP. Documentation: not known to the author. Program name: IISS Source for program information: Studio Tecnico, Via Roma 8B/8, 16121 Genova, Italy (att. Dr Ing. Piero Bozzo and Prof. Ing. Edoardo Bozzo). Program category: program origin--consulting company. Status-fully operational. Applicationlinear static and dynamic analysis of beam/plate structures. Program description: IISS is a special purpose. program for the analysis of 2D and 3D structures composed of beams or isoparametric plate elements. The beams may have rigid or elastic joints, the boundaries may be fixed or elastic. Matrix displacement formulation. The static solution is obtained by Gauss out-of-core method and Cholesky out-of-core method. Modal analysis is provided by subspace iteration, out-of-core. Element library: beam element, isoparametric plate element. Isoparametric elements are of the Serendipity family with the possibility of the node’s collapse. Material library: isotropic arid anisotropic, linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Elastic foundation. Mechanical and thermal loads may be applied on the

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structure. Concentrated loads, distributed loads. Combination of load cases may be handled. Pre/postprocessing: no generators are available. The interactive postprocessor allows one to display/ plot deformed structure and stresses. Program limitations: not known to the author. Hardware requirements: not known to the author. Implemented on: IBM PC, Olivetti PC. Documentation: not known to the author.

Program name: IMAGES 2D, 30

Source for program information: Celestial Software, 125 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94710, U.S.A. Program category: program origin-software house. Status-fully operational. Application-static and dynamic analysis of 2D and 3D structures. Program description: two packages have been developed for the linear static and dynamic analysis of 2D and 3D structures respectively. Dynamic capabilities: eigenvalue analysis, seismic response analysis. Both programs are menu-driven. Element library: 2D package contains truss, beam, plate and single-node spring element. The 3D package contains truss, beam, plate, membrane plus bending plate, single-node and two-node spring elements. Up to 50 different cross-sections are available for beams. Material library: linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Concentrated loads or moments, distributed loads, thermal loads. In addition for the 3D package-pressure load and tapered distributed loads may be handled. Load case combination is possible. Notable items: a companion program that performs AISC/ASME code checks is available. Translation of files to a larger computer is possible. Node renumbering routine. Pre/postprocessing: IMAGES 2D-mesh generators are available. IMAGES 3D-mesh, boundary conditions and loads generators are available. Data input checking. Model can be displayedzooming, hidden-line capability, rear model clipping can be provided. The 3D package has a split-screen capability. Results can be plotted and animated. Program limits: IMAGES 2D-max. 100 nodes, 150 beams or 50 triangular plate elements. Max. 300 DOF. IMAGES 3D-max. 300 nodes, 300 beams and 300 plates and 300 springs. Max. 1800 DOF for both static and dynamic analysis. Hardware requirements: IMAGES 2D requires 256 KB RAM, IMAGES 3D requires 512 KB RAM. A hard disk for the 3D package is recommended. 8087 math co-processor chip. A color graphics adapter is required for IMAGES 3D. Implemented on: IBM PC, IBM PC/XT, IBM PC/AT and IBM compatibles.

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Documentation: Manual.

on-line

help instructions.

User’s

Progrom name: LIBRA

Source for program information: InterCept Software, 3425 South Bascom Avenue, Campbell, CA 95008, U.S.A. Program category: program origin-software house. Status-fully operational. Application-linear static analysis of 2D and 3D structures, heat transfer analysis. Program description: LIBRA Finite Element Analysis Series contains two programs, the LIBRA Structural Analysis and LIBRA Heat Transfer Analysis respectively. The two independent modules contain a preprocessor, the Interactive Model Builder and an analysis part. Output from the heat transfer analysis module can be used as an input to the structural module. 3D steady state and transient heat transfer analysis may be handled. Solution method: stiffness matrix decomposition with Blocked Gaussian Elimination using out-of-core storage. Programs are menu-driven. Element library: element library contains 14 elements. Elements for heat transfer analysis are lD, 2D, axisymmetric and 3D solids. For the structural analysis truss, beams, membranes, plates and shells, axisymmetric and 3D solid elements are available. Special elements: linear springs. Material library: isotropic and anisotropic, linear elastic material properties. Temperaturedependence is permitted. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Multipoint constraint relations may be specified. Fixed temperature, convective, heat flux and radiative boundary conditions may be specified. Mechanical and thermal loads may be handled. Pressure loadings may be applied to shell elements and uniform loading may be specified along beam elements. Body forces and centrifugal rotation loads. Multiple load cases. Notable items: bandwidth optimization. Restart capability. Frequently-used material properties may be stored and retrieved in a material library. Pre/postprocessing: interactive Model Builder is a preprocessor available. The postprocessor program is under development. Mesh generator, generation of boundary conditions and loads is possible. Free-format input. Graphic undeformed model viewing capability. On-line editing/modification. Program limitations: up to 4OOODOF. Hardware requirements: 512 KB minimum, 360 KB diskette drive, 10 MB hard disk recommended, 8087 math co-processor recommended, standard IBM graphics card recommended. MS-DOS (version 2.0 or later).

Implemented on: IBM PC/XT/AT, Compaq, or compatible. Documentation: demonstration disks. Structural and Thermal User manuals. Program name: microABAQU.9

Source for program information: Hibbitt, Karlsson and Sorensen, Inc., 35 South Angel1 Street, Providence, RI 02906, U.S.A. and Dept of Mechanical Engng, University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada N2L 3Gl (att. R. Hoff). Program category: program origin--consulting company and university. Status-under development. Application-linear static analysis. Program description: the program under development is a subset of the well-known general purpose program ABAQUS. The current version of microABAQUS is Version 0. This is still a development version and is being used to determine the suitability of ABAQUS to the microcomputer environment. Input files are fully compatible with ABAQUS. Printed, plotted and file output are available and are identical to ABAQUS. Frontal solution method is used. Element library: at present, only 2D and 3D beam elements have been implemented for the linear static analysis. Material library: linear elastic, isotropic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Static load in form of nodal loads and pressure. Load combination is possible. Torsion problems may be analyzed. Pre/postprocessing: passive graphics. Mesh, restraint and loading generation is possible. Program limitations: not known to the author. Hardware requirements: 512 KB-640 KB RAM, 10MB hard disk, 8087 or 80287 numeric coprocessor, IBM color graphics adapter required if graphic part is desired. Operating system: PC-DOS V 2.10 and V 3.10. Implemented on: IBM-PC/XT and AT. User Manual currently in Documentation: preparation. Program name: MICROFEAP

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Source for program information: Division of Structural Engng and Construction, Asian Institute of Technology, Bangkok 10501, Thailand (att. W. Kanok-Nukulchai). Program category: program origin-university. Status-fully operational. Application-linear elastic static analysis. Program description: MICROFEAP can solve 2D and 3D linear elastic static problems. Modular design concept is used. The program contains 7 modules: Input, Profile, Psolve, Stress. COmbine, Plot and Output. Modules are logically independent. The user controls solution steps by specifying a set of macrocommands. A directory

Finite element codes for microcomputers-a file is created to store information about all possible files in the data bank. The program is written in Applesoft BASIC. Block profile solver, out-of-core. Element library: element library contains truss, beam, membrane (plane stress and plane strain) elements, and plate and shell elements. Special element: shear panel. User’s own elements can be incorporated into the element library. Material library: isotropic, linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: mechanical and thermal loads may be applied. Nodal loads, pressure. Load combination is possible. Pre/postprocessing: interactive data preparation. Mesh, restraints and load generation can be handled. Data verification by a graphical display. Selected results can be plotted. Program limitations: not known to the author. Plane frame problems with 525 DOF have been analyzed. Hardware requirements: Min. 64 KB for Apple II +, 80 column display. 256 KB for IBM PC. Implemented on: Apple II +, IBM PC. Documentation: User’s Manual. Program name: MICSTRAN

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for program information: Structural Engineering Research Centre, CSIR Complex, Taramani, Madras 600 113, India (att. G. V. S. Kumar). Program category: program origin-research institute. Status-fully operational. Applicationlinear static analysis of trusses, frames and grids. Program description: MICSTRAN (Microcomputer Structural Analysis package) is a package consisting of a set of programs for the linear static analysis of 2D and 3D trusses, 2D frames and grids. The programs are written in both PL/S language and FORTRAN. Solution method: Cholesky decomposition technique. The programs are available in two versions: the first one has virtual memory facility, the second one is without it. It means that the second version can be used only for small problems which do not need large space. Element library: element library contains truss and beam elements. Material library: linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Only nodal loads are accepted for truss analysis. Member as well as nodal loads are accepted for grid and frame analysis. Any number of load cases can be handled. Pre/postprocessing: interactive preprocessor for data input is available. The postprocessor is under development. A number of conversational type messages is available. Free-format input. Program limitations: PL/S programs-about 500 DOF with a semi-bandwidth of 50. FORTRAN Source

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programs-about 30 nodes with a semibandwidth of 25. For all programs max. members = 100. Hardware requirements: the programs are suitable for 8-bit, 16-bit and 32-bit machines. The limitations above are only for 8-bit microcomputers. Even on 8-bit computers larger problems can be solved, if virtual memory facility exists. Min. required configuration-64 KB main memory with one or two disk drives. FORTRAN or PL/S compiler. CP/M operating system. Implemented on: UPTRON S-800, S-850, USHA EAGLE and HCL-S2 systems. Documentation: User Manual. Program name: MICRO-SMIS

[4849]

Source for program information: Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Dept of Civil Engineering, Thessaloniki, Greece (att. I. E. Avramidis). Program category: program origin-university. Status-fully operational. Application-matrix manipulation, static and dynamic linear elastic analysis. Program description: MICRO-SMIS is an interpretive language program which performs manipulation of arrays and matrices and several structural analysis operations. The program is an implementation of mainframe SMIS version on I-bit microcomputers. BASIC language has been used. Latest version of MICRO-SMIS consists entirely of compiled routines. The program is run through the input set of commands. At present about 55 operations may be performed. These can be categorized into: matrix input/output (including graphics) and housekeeping, algebraic matrix operations, operations for static and dynamic analysis. MICRO-SMIS consists of several independent but interactive programs. The arithmetical data required are not included in the input set. Two solution methods are available: the first one is based on the Gauss elimination; the second one is a modification of the Cholesky method. Element library: element library contains truss and beam elements. Material library: linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Nodal loads. Notable items: user-de&d and looping operations. The program is suitable to assist in teaching structural analysis. An error handling program is incorporated. Pre/postprocessing: interactive data input and modifications. All matrices can be displayed. Structural model as well as the calculated moments, shear and axial forces can be visualized. Program limitations: about 100 different matrices can be handled. Maximum number of rows x number of columns = 225 coefficients per matrix is allowed.

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Hardware requirements: 64 KB of main memory, two floppy disks of 124 KB storage capacity each, video display 24 lines/40 characters, dot matrix printer. Implemented on: Apple II Plus, Commodore CBM 4032. Documentation: User Manual. Program name: MICRO STRESS

for program information: Computational Mechanics Ltd, Ashurst Lodge, Ashurst, Southampton SO4 2AA, U.K. Program category: program origin-research institute. Status-fully operational. Applicationlinear static analysis of frames. Program description: MICRO STRESS is a program for the linear elastic static analysis of frame structures. Equation solver-in-core/out-of-core Gauss elimination technique. Element library: truss/beam elements are available. Material library: linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: concentrated and distributed loads may be applied. Deformationdependency is permitted. Load combination. Pre/postprocessing: mesh generator is available. Passive graphics only. Result selection. Plotting is possible. Free-format input. Program limitations: not known to the author. Hardware requirements: 256KB main memory, two 360 KB floppy disks, MS-DOS operating system. Implemented on: Apple, IBM PC. Documentaton: not known to the author. Source

Program name: MSC/pal[50-521

Source for program information: The MacNealSchwendler Carp, 8 15 Colorado Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90041, U.S.A. Program category: program origin-+onsulting company. Status-fully operational. Application2D and 3D linear static and dynamic analysis. Program description: MSC/pal is a program for the linear static and dynamic analysis of 2D and 3D structures subjected to mechanical loads. Dynamic capabilities include eigenvalue analysis, transient response and frequency response analysis. PAL is a main module of the package. It reads the model data file and assembles equations. PAL communicates with other modules. STAT performs static analysis, MODES computes frequencies and mode shapes, TRAN computes response to time-varying loads, FREQ performs frequency response analysis. Solution method: skyline solver, QR method and Jacobi method for modes, modal transient response, direct frequency response. MSC/pal is a command-driven program. Element library: three types of beams and two types of plates are included. Special elements: spring, mass, damper, stiffener, pipe element. Plane

MACKERLE stress/strain membrane elements are also available. All elements for dynamic analysis use a consistent mass formulation. Material library: isotropic, linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Skew boundary conditions are permitted. Mechanical loads in form of nodal forces, distributed loads, volume loads, impact loads, centrifugal loads. Load combination is possible. Notable items: a model optimizer is provided. Restart capability. Failure criteria are included. MSC/pal data files can be converted to MSCNASTRAN format. Pre/postprocessing: an interactive preprocessor is included. Input consists of a free-format file containing model data and properties. An input editor is provided for data creation/ modification. Tabular and graphical output for result presentation. Animation of deformed shapes can be done. PALPREP-interactive model generation. PLOT-provides high resolution XY plots. REPLAY-replays text, graphics, and animation files in slide-show format. Program limitations: static analysis can contain up to 300 nodes. Dynamic analysis is limited up to 225-250 DGF (depends on the type of analysis). Those am reduced by the package to 125 dynamic DOF for normal modes and transients, and to 100 dynamic DOF for frequency response respectively. Hardware requirements: min. 256 KB of main memory, two floppy disks, a color graphics card is required for structure plots and for highresolution XY plots. An 8087 math co-processor is recommended. Implemented on: IBM PC and compatibles. Documentation: User’s Manual, sample problems. Program name: NISA IDISPLA Y

Source for program information: Engineering Mechanics Research Corp. P.O. Box 696, Troy, MI 48999, U.S.A. (att. K. S. Kothawala). Program category: program origin-research and consulting corporation. Status-fully operational. Application-static and dynamic analy sis of 2D and 3D structures, heat transfer analysis, analysis of field problems. Program description: NISA is a large, -general purpose program installed on mainframe, supermini, mini, micro and personal computers. Static, dynamic (eigenvalue analysis, transient dynamic analysis, shock spectrum analysis, frequency response analysis), heat transfer (conduction, convection and radiation), as well as field problems can be handled. NISA consists of different modules, i.e. NISA STATIC, NISA DYNAMIC, NISA HEAT TRANSFER, NISA COMPOSITES, etc. The potential user can

Finite element codes for microcomputers-a

license the entire NISA/DISPLAY program or only required modules/interfaces. NON-NISA is available for problems with geometric/material nonlinearities. Element library: an extensive element library is available. All element types are represented, i.e. plane stress/strain membranes, axisymmetric elements, beams, trusses, general shells. Special elements: laminated composite or sandwich shells, springs, mass elements, rigid elements. Heat transfer element library. Material library: isotropic, orthotropic and anisotropic linear elastic material properties. Temperature-dependency is allowed for static, dynamic and heat transfer problems. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Multipoint constraint equations. Skewed boundary conditions are allowed. Type of loading permitted includes concentrated nodal forces, uniform and non-uniform distributed loads, body forces, nodal temperatures and gradients. Thermal analysis-concentrated nodal heat flow, distributed heat flux, convective heat flow at surfaces, radiation boundary conditions, internal heat generation. Dynamic loadstime-dependent concentrated nodal forces, pressure loads, base excitation. Multiple load cases can be solved. Notable items: an extensive set of different pre and postprocessors is available. NISA is interfaced with many CAD/CAM systems. Prelpostprocessing: DISPLAY/DIGIT is an interactive, general purpose preprocessor. Its capabilities include mesh generation/modification, wavefront minimization, model display/plotting, etc. The preprocessor is menu-driven and it is built on editors and various mesh generators. DISPLAY/DIGIT can be used for any finite element program. Program limitations: NISA has no limit on the number of elements/nodes that can be used in a problem. The size of the problem is limited by the core storage and file space available. Hardware requirements: dynamic core allocation and selective loading reduces the amount of core required. For example, NISA can run on Honeywell 6080 within 45 K words of memory. NISA is independent of graphical devices. Implemented on: Alpha-micro, Sun micro, HP, IBM PC XT/AT, Apple. Documentation: an extensive set of manuals is available. Note: the author is missing detailed information on program modules implemented on personal computers. Program name: NOLINA

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Source for program information: Department Civil Engineering, University College Swansea, Wales, U.K. (att. G. N. Pande).

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Program category: program origin-university. Status-fully operational. Applicationnonlinear elasto-plastic stress analysis. Program description: NOLINA is a program for the elasto-plastic analysis including creep of 2D and axisymmetric structures (LINA is a similar package for the linear elastic analysis). Two other special versions are available, NOLINA-S and NOLINA-R respectively. NOLINA-S is a program for soil mechanics applications, NOLINAR can handle problems of jointed rock masses. Two versions of basic NOLINA have been developed. The first one can be called ‘black box’, the second version is transparent for the user and is intended for the research activities. Programs are written in BASIC. Conversational mode of operation. Data are created/stored in five separate files. The program is structured to fit the machine with 64KB memory into four sectors: INPUT, FRONT, SOLUTION, and LOAD INCREMENT/TIME STEPPING. Elasto visco-plastic algorithm and simple Euler’s line integration has been adopted. Element library: element library contains plane stress, plane strain membrane isoparametric elements and axisymmetric elements. Material library: isotropic, elasto-plastic material properties. Von Mises yield criterion is adopted. Boundary conditions and loading: concentrated loads are permitted. Initial stress. Notable items: different program versions are available, tailored for special purpose analyses. Pre/postprocessing: input data file is created in freeformat input. Model can be displayed/ plotted. Error diagnostics and consistency check. Graphics capabilities are available. Specified elements/zones can be re-plotted. Deformed mesh plotting. Stresses are printed for each Gauss point (elastic stage and nonlinear stage after convergence). Program limitations: with 64 KB memory-up to 50 eight node isoparametric elements and 150 nodes. Hardware requirements: Min 64 KB memory, one floppy disk unit. Implemented on: HP86/87. Documentation: no user’s manual. The program guides the user step-by-step to solve the problem. Program name: OLIFINEST

[54]

Source for program information: Ce-A.S. S.r.l.Centro di Analisi Strutturale, V. le Giustiniano, lo-20129 Milano, Italy (att. M. V. Ionita and B. Fir@. Program category: program origin-consulting company. Status-fully operational. Applicationstatic and dynamic analysis of 2D and 3D structures.

672

JARC~LAV MACKERLE

Program description: OLIFINEST is a generalpurpose program for the linear static and dynamic analysis of 2D and 3D structures. Dynamic capabilities include transient and frequency response analysis using modal superposition technique. Modular concept program design. During the execution phase the user may control solution steps using a system of options. Modules can communicate with each other and with the operating system using a database. The program is written in BASIC language. The routines for file managment, as well as routines for forward and backward substitutions, are written in assembly language. Solution scheme: skyline reduction technique with storing blocks. Element library: the element library contains truss element, beam elements, plane stress and plane strain membrane isoparametric elements, axisymmetric element, plate and shell elements. Special elements: boundary element. Material library: isotropic or orthotropic linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Multipoint constraint relations. Concentrated and distributed loads are permitted. Thermal effects may be handled. Load case combination. Notable items: restart capability. Different code checks for beam and truss elements. Pre/postprocessing: input data are prepared using System File Editor. Plot-Mesh module for model checking. Postprocessor module is available for deformed shape plots, single beam stress plots, iso and arrow plots for membrane stresses. Program limitations: with the 128 KB memory and 2 floppy disks (272 KB formattedFup to 300 nodes and 400 elements. Hardware requirements: the program is implemented on three different microprocessors-Zilog 8001, Intel 8086( +8087) and Motorola 68000 respectively. It is working under MS-DOS or PCOS operating systems and BASIC interpreter or compiler. Implemented on: OLIVETTI M 20 ST. Documentation: not known to the author. Progrom name: PLAlVEAXI/MICRO

[55]

Source for program information: Dept of Civil Engineering, University College of Swansea, Swansea, U.K. (att. E. Hinton). Program category: program origin-university. Status-fully operational. Application-linear static analysis of 2D structures. Program description: the package contains a set of preprocessor, analysis and postprocessor programs. PLANEAXI is the analysis part. Plane stress, plane strain and axisymmetric problems can be handled. To overcome the inaccuracies in the solution process when using a precision of only seven significant figures, an iterative algo-

rithm has been included. Another algorithm is available to smooth or extrapolate stresses from the Gauss-Legendre points to the nodal points. The programs are written in FORTRAN IV, compiled by the Microsoft FORTRAN 77 compiler, except for one program written in Microsoft BASIC. Element library: the element implemented is an isoparametric, 8-node, quadrilateral element, numerically integrated. Material library: isotropic, linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Nodal loading, gravity loads, edge loads, thermal loads. Notable items: efficient preprocessors, optimized mesh renumbering. Pre/postprocessing: the interactive preprocessor consists of four programs, namely: MESHINGeasy input and data editing, AUTOGENautomatic mesh generation using macroelements, MESHOPT-mesh renumbering, and PLOTDATA-mesh display at any stage of the mesh preparation. The postprocessor consists of a single interactive program called PLOTRES for plotting of deformed meshes, principal stresses and stress contours. Program limitations: not known to the author. Hardware requirements: 512 KB of RAM, twin 1.2 MB disk drives, 8087 math co-processor. MS-DOS operating system. Implemented on: ACT Sirius. Documentation: menu-driven programs, the package is completely self-contained. Program nome: PLATE [65]

Source for program information: Technische Datenverarbeitung, A-8010 Grax, Luthergasse 4, Austria (att. DipI.-Ing. Heinz Pircher). Program category: program origin~onsulting company. Status-fully operational. Applicationlinear static analysis of plate structures. Program description: PLATE is a special purpose program for the linear static analysis of plates subjected to arbitrary mechanical and thermal loads. Solution method--skyline solution with automatic minimization of column height (PFM-algorithm). Element library: element library contains bar, beam and plate isoparametric elements. Material library: isotropic, linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions, elastic foundation, skew boundaries are permitted. Mechanical loads are permitted in a form of concentrated and distributed loads. Thermal loads may be applied too. Load combination is possible. Notable items: restart capability. Prelpostprocessing: passive and interactive graphics.

Finite element codes for microcomputers-a Mesh generator, load generator and possibility for generation of boundary conditions. Plotting is possible. Program limitations: not known to the author. Hardware requirements: the program can be implemented on any microcomputer operating under MS-DOS. Implemented on: IBM PC, HP (Unix-HP). Documentation: User’s Manual.

Program

name:

PORTSMOUTH-MICRO

(S % CON

Puckuge) [56]

Source for program information: Department of Mechanical Engineering, Portsmouth Polytechnic, Portsmouth PO1 3DJ, U.K. (att. C. T. F. Ross). Program category: program origin-university. Status-fully operational. Apphcation-linear and nonlinear static and dynamic analysis, heat transfer analysis, field problem analysis. Program description: the software developed is aimed as a teaching tool for problems in structural and continuum mechanics. Static and vibration analysis of 2D and 3D skeletal structures, plates and shells, as well as 2D and 3D heat transfer problems and fluid flow problems can be handled. An extension set of special purpose programs has been developed. The programs are written in BASIC and PASCAL languages. They can be classified into the categories as follows: static analysis of skeletal structures, thermal stress analysis, free vibration of structures, stress analysis of plates and shells, field problems (solution of Laplace and Poisson equations) and buckling. Element library: element library contains beams, membranes, plates, shells and axisymmetric elements. Special element types available: stiffener and fluid elements. Material library: isotropic, linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions, elastic foundation, skew boundaries are permitted. Mechanical and thermal loads may be applied. Concentrated and distributed loads. Notable items: a wide range of problems can be solved, i.e. the torsion of non-circular sections, seepage, magneto-statics, electrostatics. Pre/postprocessing: a graphical display capability (depending on the micro used). No generators are available. Program limitations: not known to the author. Hardware requirements: min. 32 KB RAM, disk drive/tape deck, printer. Implemented on: CBM/PET, Apple II, BBC B, Sinclair Spectrum, Sinclair QL. Documentation: not known to the author.

review

673

Program name: SAP80 [57-61]

Source for program information: Computers & Structures, Inc., 1918 University Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94794, U.S.A. (att. A. Habibullah and E. L. Wilson). Program category: program origin-university. Status-fully operational. Application-linear static and dynamic analysis, analysis of fluid problems. Program description: SAP80 is a general purpose program for the linear static and dynamic analysis of structures. The program segments are designed to operate with a common database management system and are executable on micro or large mainframe computers. The program is organized for use with a blocked out-of-core equation solver. Dynamic analysis: eigenvalue, response spectrum analysis. SAP80 is written exclusively by the developers of the original SAP program. Element library: element library contains beam and truss elements, membranes, plate and shell elements, axisymmetric elements, and 3D solid elements. Special elements-fluid element. Material library: isotropic and anisotropic, linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Multipoint constraint relations. Spring support. Mechanical and thermal loads are permitted. Arbitrary member loading, gravity and prestress loading. Notable items: substructuring option is available. Automated solution verification. Automatic node reordering. Pre/postprocessing: free-format input, list direct input. Mesh generation, generation of boundary conditions and loads can be handled. Interactive graphics capability for plotting 2D and 3D views displaying undeformed and deformed structural geometry and mode shapes. Program limitations: up to 3500 equations on the IBM PC equipped with a 10MB hard disk. Hardware requirements: microcomputers operating under MS-DOS. The program is distributed in MS-DOS 2.1 compatible executable form. Implemented on: IBM PC (also VAX, Prime, Fujitsu). Documentation: user’s manual. A comprehensive set of test data and results. Program name: SAP86

Source for program information: Number Cruncher Microsystems, Inc., 1455 Hayes Street, San Francisco, CA 94117, U.S.A. Program category: program origin--consulting company. Status-fully operational. Applicationlinear static and dynamic analysis. Program description: SAP86 is a general purpose program for the linear static and dynamic analy-

674

Jluzcm~v MACKW~LE

sis of 2D and 3D structures. Dynamic capabilities: mode shapes and frequencies, response spectrum analysis, response time history analysis. SAP86 is an enhanced version of SAP IV program. It has the ability to read and write SAP IV data files. Program execution is controlled from a menu-driven shell which minimixes direct interaction with MS-DOS. Solution methods: static analysis uses block storage bandwidth, mode shape analysis uses subspace iteration method. Response history-modal superposition, direct integration. Element library: all element types are available, i.e. truss and beam elements, thin plate and shell elements, axisymmetric element, plane stress and strain membrane elements and 3D solid element. Special elements: thick shell element, 3D pipe elements, boundary element, springs. Material library: isotropic and orthotropic, linear elastic material properties. Temperaturedependency is permitted. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Gravity, thermal, pressure and concentrated loads may be handled. Load combination is possible. Notable items: interfaces routines for microcomputer CAD Graphics Programs, compatibility with Auto CAD, MicroCAD, MICROTAB. Restart capability is available. All elements are usable both in static and dynamic analysis. Bandwidth optimization. Pre/postprocessing: fully interactive input and output capabilities. Models are prepared using full-screen data forms and/or MICROTAB. MICROTAB is a general purpose interactive preprocessor for model preparation and editing. Data format translators are available for SAP86, SAP N and V, Stardyne and NASTRAN. Additional translators are in preparation. Graphics interface modules for 2D and 3D structures. Mesh generators, generation of boundary conditions and loading. Postprocessing plots. Material color coding and element surface fill. Menu-driven postprocessor can create ASCII files necessary for CAD systems. Program limitations: up to 2000 nodes. Hardware requirements: SAP86 executes under MSDOS 2.0 or higher and utilizes double-precision real numbers (64 bits), long integers (32 bits) and 8087 or 80287 NDP (numeric data processor). 64OKB RAM, one 5 l/4 inch floppy disk drive (360 KB or 1.2 MB). Either a hard disk system or an electronic RAM disk drive. Implemented on: IBM PC/XT/AT and compatibles. Documentation: user manuals. Sample problems. A demonstration diskette is also available. Program name: SMAP [62-64].

Source for program information: School of Civil Engineering, University of New South Wales,

Kensington 2033, N.S.W., Australia (att. A. P. Kabaila, R. Lawther and F. Tin Loi). Program category: program origin-university. Status-fully operational. Application-linear and nonlinear static analysis of 2D structures. Program description: SMAP (Segmented Matrix Analysis Package) is a Pascal coded program for matrix and structural analysis. The primary purpose of the program is educational, but it can be used in design offices for the analysis of 2D structures. Matrices for truss and frame elements are built-in in the SMAP. Any matrix problem can be solved if the user supplies the stiffness matrices. Problems solved using this program include structural analysis of plane frames, bridge grillages, seepage under a dam, etc. Large displacements are permitted. In-core skyline solver. Element library: truss and frame elements. Userdefined elements can be included. Material library: linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Multipoint constraint relations. Elastic support. Mechanical loads may be applied in the form of nodal loads. Pre/postprocessing: all I/O is via text files. Userwritten pie/postprocessors may be included. Free-format input. Program limitations: the program limit is that the problem can be solved using up to 2500 real numbers. Hardware requirements: Apple Pascal on Apple II, IIE and IIC. 64 KB of memory and 80 column card. 1 disk drive is required. Implemented on: Apple II microcomputers. Documentation: User Manual and tutorials.

Program name: SPACEFRA ME [65-66]

Source for program information: Technische Datenverarbeitung, A-8010 Graz, Luthergasse 4, Austria (att. Dipl.-Ing. Heinz Pircher). Program category: program origin-consulting company. Status-fully operational. Applicationlinear static and dynamic analysis of frame structures. Program description: SPACEFRAME is a special purpose program for the static and eigenvalue analysis of 3D frame structures. Solution method: skyline solution with automatic minimization of column height (PFM-algorithm). Element library: beam/truss element, flange element. Material library: linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Skew boundary conditions, local coordinate systems. Nodal point loads (global), point loads on members (local). Self-weight, creep, thermal loads. Centrifugal mass forces. Load combination is possible. Notable items: Restart capability. Cyclic symmetry.

Finite element codes for microcomputers-a review he/postprocessing: passive and interactive graphics capabilities. Mesh and load generators are available. Plots of undeformed/deformed structure, vibration modes, etc. can be handled. Program limitations: depends on the actual mkrocomputer and its mass storage. Hardware requirements: the program works on any PC under MS-DOS operating system. Implemented on: IBM PC and compatibles. Documentation: User Manual. Program name: STAPOG [671 Source for program

information: Civil Engineering Department, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, U.S.A. (att. D. T. Nguyen and S. N. Pollalis). Program category: program origin-university. Status-fully operational/under development. Application-linear static analysis and optimal design of 3D truss structures. Program description: STAPOG (StructuraI Analysis Program with Optimization and Graphics) is an extension of the STAP program, features and capabilities of which are similar to the wellknown SAP IV. STAPOG is expanded to include the calculation of design sensitivity information, which is used in the optimization routine OPTIM. The modular program design approach. Gradient Projection (GRP) algorithm was implemented into the program. Pshenichny’s method will be included in the near future. Element library: truss element. Under preparationinclusion of constant strain membrane element, beam and plate bending elements with the option of using composite material. Material library: linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Concentrated nodal loads. Notable items: optimization module is included. Color graphics is used in both the input and output phases. Pre/postprocessing: pre and postprocessor are included in the package. Interactive mode of operation. Menu-driven input. Color display of the structure, on-line editor. After the optimum design has been achieved, the data are stored in an output datafile. Display on the screen. The user may desire to rotate it in space, see how the cost function, convergence parameter or the maximum constraint violation varies with iterations. Both the preprocessor and postprocessor are written in BASIC. Program limitations: not known to the author. Tenmember cantilever truss has been designed. Hardware requirements: 128 KB of internal memory, 320 KB of disk storage, color CRT graphics and Houston Instrument HIPLOT color plotter. MS-DOS operating system. Implemented on: IBM PC. Documentation: not known to the author, C.&S. 24/4--K

675

Program name: STRANDIAUS

Source for program information: Finite Element Software Co. 25 Jocelyn Street, North Curl Curl, Sydney 2099, Australia. Program category: program origin--software company. Status-fully operational. Applicationlinear and nonlinear static analysis, linear dynamic analysis, heat transfer analysis. Program description: STIN/STRAND/STOUT is a package of programs for linear and nonlinear static analysis, linear dynamic analysis and analysis of heat transfer problems. STIN is a preprocessor, STRAND is the main assembler and solver, STOUT is a graphics oriented postprocessor. Geometric nonlinearities for the static analysis may be handled. Dynamic capabilities include natural frequencies and response to periodic loads. File handling and data storage is transparent to the user. Solution methods: elimination with band minimization, iterative method. Different program versions are available: version 4 is written in FORTRAN 77 and is hardware and operating system independent. Version 5 is coded in Pascal, and also hardware and operating system independent. Element library: element library contains beam, membrane, plate, shell and 3D solid elements. Material library: isotropic and anisotropic linear elastic material properties. Temperature-dependency is permitted. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Elastic foundation. Mechanical and thermal loads. Concentrated and distributed loads, volume loads, centrifugal loads, initial stress/strain. Load combination can be handled. Notable items: easily adapted to special user requirements. Full color graphics. Node renumbering. Pre/postprocessing: STIN is a preprocessor, interactive mode of operation. Menu-driven modular operation. Mesh generation facilities, generation of boundary conditions and loads. Full color graphics with on-line editing. STOUT is a postprocessor. Listing and plotting facilities. Plot of deformed structure, contours or vector plot of stresses. Full color graphics display with optional color shading for stress intensity. Program limitations: dependent on a hardware configuration. Hardware requirements: not known to the author. Implemented on: NEC APC, IBM XT, SPERRY PC, Apricot. The program can be implemented on all common microcomputers, it is hardware and operating system-independent. Documentation: User Manual. Program name: SUPERSAP

Source for program information: Algor Interactive Systems, Inc., Essex House, Essex Square, Pittsburgh, PA 15206, U.S.A.

676

J~xosuv MACKERLE

Program category: program origin-software and consulting company. Status-fully operational. Application-linear and non-linear static and dynamic analysis, heat transfer analysis. Program description: SUPERSAP is a general purpose program for the static and dynamic analysis of general structures. The program was originally developed for PRIME computers, but at present it is also available for IBM personal computers under DOS operating system. The SUPERSAP program is composed of different modules. Two main modules are linear and nonlinear processor respectively. The nonlinear processor is available only for PRIME computers. Heat transfer capabilities: convection, conduction, radiation. Dynamic capabilities: response spectrum, natural frequency, time history, random vibration, frequency response, direct integration. Solution methodmodified block bandwidth skyline technique. Element library: all element types are included in the element library, i.e. beams, membranes, plates, shells, axisymmetric elements and 3D solid elements. Special elements: pipe, elbow, stiffeners, boundary elements. User-defined elements can be included in the library. Material library: isotropic and orthotropic linear elastic material properties. Temperaturedependency is allowed. Boundary conditions and loading: prescribed boundary conditions. Loads can be applied in the form of point loads, pressure loads, thermal loads, constant acceleration loads, critical buckling loads, centrifugal loads. Load combination is possible. Notable items: user-written subroutines can be inserted. Color graphics. Special purpose pre and postprocessors are available. SUPERLINKtranslates CAD drawings for SUPERSAP mesh generators. Interfaces are currently available for Autocad, Cadkey and Computervision’s Personal Designer. ABEAM-AISC Beam Table look-up program. Pre/postprocessing: SUPERDRAW is an interactive CAD system for finite element modeling and drafting. BEAMBUILDER is an interactive graphics beam modeling system. Also mesh generators, modules for data input, checking and editing, as well as plotting programs are included in the system. Program limitations: not known to the author. Hardware requirements: min. 10MB hard disk, 640 KB of RAM, math co-processor (8087/ 80287), floppy disk drive, graphics display adapter and monitor. DOS operating system. Implemented on: IBM PC/XT, IBM PC/AT, and compatibles (also on VAX, Prime minicomputers). Documentation: Advanced Programming Manual,

SUPERSAP 2-Volume DRAW Manual.

Manual

Set, SUPER-

Program name: TITOU 1681

Source for program information: Institut Superieur du Beton Anne, Marseille, France (att. J. L. Bassal). Program category: program origin-research institute. Status-fully operational. Applicationlinear static analysis, analysis of field problems. Program description: TITOU is a program for linear elastic static analysis as well as for treatment of field problems, such as seepage through porous media and heat conduction. The program is also a suitable tool for teaching of the finite element technique. Modular design approach with the principle that each module is independent and at the end of processing, the information it has created is saved in files. There are 30 different modules available, the computation is followed step-by-step. The program is coded in interpreted BASIC. Menu-driven operation. Three storage possibilities are available for a matrix: half-full, half-band or half-skyline. Element library: the basic element is a quadrilateral, 12 node, of the Serendipity family. Plane stress, plane strain or axisymmetric problems can be handled. Material library: isotropic, linear elastic material properties. Boundary conditions and loading: Prescribed displacement in any direction, sliding in any direction. Direct nodal forces, body forces. Pm/postprocessing: data can be input by using a digitizer. Data modification without restarting the whole process. Modules for printing and plotting are available. Program limitations: the number of elements is limited to 16 and 128 nodes (256 DOF). Hardware requirements: 30 KB of main memory, 300 KB with two floppy disks, S’, simple facesimple density, RS 232C interface. Implemented on: TRS 80, model III. Documentation: not known to the author.

TABULAR PROGRAM PRESENTATION

The finite element programs described for personal computers are, for a ‘quick’ dissemination of information, presented also in tabular form. All programs are in alphabetical order as in the previous section. A dot in the tables means that the appropriate option is available for the program. There are four tables describing the packages: Table 1: general program information. gramming language. Hardware requirements. Table 2: type of analysis. Application area. Table 3: element library. Material library.

Pro-

Finite element codes

for microcomputers-a

Table

611

review

1

Language Hardware

CEDRUS COSMOS/F

I

FEMFAM

1 FESDEC

I I

I IO

I I

IO I5

I -

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-rl

LIBRA

I

I

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I

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I

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1.

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s-p86

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SUPERSAP TITOU

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Table 2

Type of analysis Application afea

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lla

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I

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Finite element codes for microcomputers-a

review

679

Table 3

:lement library

laterid

library

AEC-PC ANSYS-PC LIN APOLLO

0,. 0 l ~oooooo .I.

( I

0.0 0 0

0

0 I.1

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DIANA

NOLINA OLIFINEST

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I

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I

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680

Table 4

Loading other progr.?m capabilftics

Pre~postproce8sins AEC-PC la ANSYS-PC LIN APOLLO

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4:

loading,

Other

program

capabilities.

Pre/postprocessing. Acknowfedgemenfs-The information presented is based on different questionnaires sent to the program developers. The description of some programs is based only on the literature available to the author. The author thanks all companies and individuals responding to the questionnaire. Any comment and new program information are appreciated. Information received will be included in the database.

REFERENCES I. H. Falk and C. W. Beardsley, Finite element analysis oackaaes for personal computers. Mech. Engng 107,

b-71-(1985). 2. S. Ginsburg; Microcomputer Programs for Structural Engineering Courses. University of Kansas, Microcomputer Lab., Rep. No. 1 (1985). 3. B. A. Schrefler et 01. (Eds), Engineering Sofiware for Microcomtntters. Pineridge Press, Swansea (1984). 4. W. T. Bail, The role of microcomputers in civil and structural engineering. In Engineering Sofrwure, pp. 852-861. CML Publ. (1981). 5. S. Bernaert, Professional software quality, the key to efficiency of microcomputers. In Engineering Sofw. Microcomp., pp. 19-36. Pineridge Press, Swansea (1984). 6. W. E. Carroll et al.. Implementation of hnite element analysis programs on microprocessors: two case studies. In New Future Devel. Commerc. FEM (Edited by J. Robinson), pp. 243-256. R&A (1982). _ 7. G. Garggero and H. B. Wilson, Implementing large engineering programs on microcomputers, pp. 227-235. 1st Nat. Conf. Microcomp. Civil Engng, Grlando, Nov. 1983. 8. J. Jirousek, A powerful finite element method for low capacity computers, pp. 49-63. 4th Int. Conf. Engng. Softw., Kensington, U.K., June 1985. 9. H. F. Jordan and P. L. Sawyer, A multi-microprocessor system for finite element structural analysis. Comput. Struct. 10, 21-29 (1979). 10. A. Y. T. Leung, Micro-computer analysis of threedimensional tall buildings. Compur. Strucf. 21.639661 (1985). 11. K. Maekawa et al., Man machine interactive analysis in concrete structures using microcomputers. Adu. Mech. Reir$ Concrete, pp. 335-350. Delft, The Netherlands (1981). 12. D. J. Mulholland, Investigation of the feasibility of implementing substantial finite element codes on popular microcomputers. Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA, Oct. 1982. 13. R. L. Nakonechny et (II., Engineering computations using microsystems. In Engineering Software, Vol. II. CML Publ. (1981). 14. J. M. Nelson, Using microcomputers for engineering calculations. Adv. Engng So/wore 2, 9-12 (1980). 15. D. TatIs, The application of microcomputers in structural engineering. Conf. Microcomp. Civil Engng, City University, London (1980). 16. D. Tal, Developing large engineering packages on microcomputers. In Engineering Software, Vol. II, pp. 828-841. CML Publ. (1981). 17. A. Verruijt, Finite element calculations on a microcomputer. Inr. J. Numer. Merh. Engng 15, 1570-1574 (1980). 18. Y. Yamada, Microcomputer challenge to finite element analysis-possibilities for application to reinforced concrete structure. U.S.-Japan Seminar FEM (1985).

review

681

19. J. Mackerle, MAKEBASE, an on-line information retrieval system for structural mechanics. Compur. Srrucr. (to be published). 20. J. Mackerle, MAKEBASE: An information system on structural mechanics software and applications. Adu. Engng Softwore 8, 81-87 (1986). 21. E. J. Stefanides, Subset derived PC program is powerful finite element analysis tool. Design News, Aug. 1985. 22. 0. H. Griffin and C. R. Wilson, Finite element analysis on a microprocessor-based personal workstation. Comput. Strucr. 17, 617-619 (1983). 23. S. N. Pollalis et al., Computer-aided design of concrete buildings. In Engng Sofw. Microcomp., pp. 885-896. Pineridge Press, Swansea (1984). 24. Anon., BASIS & Personal Computer, la ptogettaxione delle strutture di edifici civili in acciaio assistita da calcolatore. Nuova Italsider S. p. A., Genova, Italy (1985). 25. E. Bozxo and L. Gambarotta, Tbe personal computer in dannina and design of building with the BASIS meLsystem. Cosrnuioii Metallicke 1, (1985). 26. L. M. Tri er al., CA.ST.OR BE-SD, a finite element analysis with micro-computer. In Engng Sofw. Microcamp., pp. 461-464. Pineridge Press, Swansea (1984). 27. L. M. Tri er ul., Finite element analysis with microcomputers. In Engineering Software, Vol. III. SpringerVerlag, New York (1983). 28. J. Theiler and G. Baxri, CEDRUS: A finite element program for plates and slabs running on microcomputers. In Engng Sofiw. Microcomp., pp. 403-410. Pineridge Press, Swansea (1984). 29. Anon., Logiciel de calcul des structures spatiales COSMOS, Nouveaux developpements. Annoles, BUN. CACT, 431, 66-84 (1985). 30. R. de Borst ef al., DIANA, A threedimensional, nonlinear finite element package on a micro-computer. In Engng Sofrw. Microcomp., pp. 435-446. Pineridge Press, swansea (1984). 31. F. C. de Witte and G. M. A. Kusters, Software enginccring aspects of flexible structural analysis system. IABSE-Coll. Adv. Mech. Reinf. Concr. (1981). 32. E. Backx and J. P. Rammant, Structural bvnamic interactive analysis in BASIC on micros. In Engheering Software. DD. 842-851. CML Publ. 11981). 33. E.-Back; ;; al., Case study on desk computer: Finite element analysis in BASIC. 2nd World Cong. FEM. Boumemouth (Edited by J. Robinson), pp. 669-680 (1978). 34. E. Backx er al., Interactive engineering software for desktop computers. In Engineering Softwure (Edited by R. A. Adey), pp. 161-179. Pentech Press (1979). 35. E. Backx er aI., Virtual storage data management system for finite element analysis on micro’s In &gineering Sofiwure, Vol. III. Springer-Verlag. New York (1983). 36. J. P. Rammant, Micro-computer finite element analysis in practice. Int. Conf. Engng. Appl. FEM, Hovik, Norway, May 1979. 37. J. P. Rammant, SCIA’s hnite element system on desktop computers. In A Handbook FE Sysr. (Edited by C. A. Brebbia). DD. 364-383. CML Publ. (1981). 38. J. F. Stelxer, I%& element programming organ’&ation on desktop computers. In New Future Dev. Commer. FEM. (Edited by J. Robinson), pp. 229-242. R&A (1982). 39. J. F. Stelxer, Considerations and strategies in developing finite element software for desktop computers. Int. J. Computer-Aidcd Engng 1. 106-124 (1984). 40. J. F. St&. A simple but&ctive method to produce colour FEM results. Enpnp Cornnut. 1.227-231 (1984). 41. J. F. St&et, The way -to m&computer-adequate finite-element-software. In Engng Sofw. Microcomp., pp. 369-380. Pineridge Press, Swansea (1984).

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