Finite element analysis

A numerical method for solving problems of engineering and mathematical physics.

Software technique used to study stresses and strains on mechanical parts or components. Virtual prototyping software, often a component of CAD software programs, automatically generates the simulated mechanical loads for FEA

The finite element method formulation of the problem results in a system of algebraic equations. To solve the problem, it subdivides a large problem into smaller, simpler parts that are called finite elements. The simple equations that model these finite elements are then assembled into a larger system of equations that models the entire problem. FEA then uses variational methods from the calculus of variations to approximate a solution by minimizing an associated error function.