Finite-Element Graphic Objects in C++

Abstract

This technical note describes the design and application of a group of graphical finite-element object classes that were developed using the object-oriented approach and were implemented in C++. These object classes were designed to encapsulate the characteristics of finite-element objects and corresponding graphic drawing functionalities. Thus, graphic functionalities can be incorporated easily into a finite-element analysis program by the selective use of these object classes. Extension of these object classes can lead to new finite elements with different functional and graphical characteristics. A windows-based finite-element analysis program with an interactive graphic user interface was developed using these object classes as basic building blocks. The