The finite element method (FEM) is a computational technique for solving problems which are described by partial differential equations or which can be formulated as functional minimization. The FEM is commonly used in the design and development of products, especially where structural analysis is involved. The simple object model of the Java™ programming language lends itself to efficient implementation of FEM analysis.

Programming Finite Elements in Java™ teaches the reader FEM algorithms and their programming in Java™ through a single finite element Java™ program. The compact, simple code makes it straightforward to understand the algorithms and their implementation, thereby encouraging developers to extend the code to their own tasks. All of the main aspects of finite element techniques are considered:

• finite element solution;

• generation of finite element meshes; and

• visualization of finite element models and results with Java 3D™.

The step-by-step presentation includes algorithm programming and code explanation at each point. Problems and exercises are provided for each chapter, with Java™ source code and problem data sets available from the book’s webpage at springer.com/978-1-84882-971-8.

Graduate students using the FEM will find the simple but detailed object-oriented programming methods presented in this textbook to be of great assistance in understanding the FEM, including mesh generation and visualization. Programming Finite Elements in Java™ will also be of interest to senior undergraduates doing special studies encompassing the FEM. Researchers and practicing engineers already familiar with the FEM but seeking an alternative approach will find this book readily suited to self study.