Design of adaptive finite element software. The finite element toolbox ALBERTA. With CD-ROM
Various applications of scientific computing require finite element codes adapted to specific problems. In each of the implementations typical subproblems like data input, geometry representation, grid generation and adaptation, graphical data presentation, etc. occur. In addition interfaces to other graphic programs are included. The authors developed the toolbox ALBERTA to provide routines for most of the task one needs to implement finite element algorithms. The modules contained in ALBERTA are documented in great detail in this monograph such that it enables scientists to solve some standard problems like Poisson's equation, nonlinear reaction-diffusion equations and heat conduction directly or to use the modules to build own computer codes upon their basis. This way most of the routine work in finite element program design can be saved. The toolbox generates an efficient environment for the implementation of new finite element based algorithms up to three spatial coordinates. Beside tailored solutions for most standard cases this also includes e.g. applications to pde-constrained optimization or inverse problems. All routines are written in ANSI-C and well documented in the monograph. In addition, the authors briefly present basic mathematical facts to enable the reader to catch the core ideas of finite element analysis and to understand the computer implementation as a direct application of the underlying concept. Detailed descriptions of the computer routine are provided such that the interested user can properly apply them. This monograph can be recommended to all scientists which are interested in applications of finite elements on computers and in most of the rather extensive problems of data management. Here the reader will not only find answers to many questions of finite element implementation, but obtains also efficient tools to support the writing of own computer codes. The book complemented by an ALBERTA distribution on CD-ROM for UNIX/Linux systems.
scientific article; zbMATH DE number 2133290