New approach for automation of finite element analysis

In this paper we propose a new approach for an optimization of finite element analysis in elasticity. From a mechanical problem and a criterion of optimization, the procedure provides an approximate solution satisfying the prescribed criterion. An error measure based on the constitutive relation and an efficient adaptive technique which automatically takes into account steep gradient areas are used. With such a procedure, even a nonspecialist can carry out accurate finite element analysis. In particular, the user does not identify a priori the regions that must be refined. Several criteria of optimization have been developed and some examples show the efficiency of the method.