Computational Modeling of Structural Systems Using FEM
Keywords:
Finite Element Method, Structural Analysis, Computational Modeling, Meta-Analysis, Numerical SimulationAbstract
The Finite Element Method (FEM) has emerged as the predominant computational approach for structural analysis and design optimization in modern engineering applications. This comprehensive review and meta-analysis examines the evolution, applications, and effectiveness of FEM in computational modeling of structural systems spanning from 2010 to 2024. The study synthesizes findings from 85 peer-reviewed publications, analyzing methodological approaches, validation techniques, and performance metrics across diverse structural engineering domains. Our analysis reveals that FEM demonstrates superior accuracy rates (>95%) in linear static analysis, while nonlinear dynamic applications show moderate accuracy (78-85%) depending on element formulation and mesh refinement strategies. The meta-analysis indicates significant improvements in computational efficiency with modern adaptive mesh techniques, reducing solution time by 40-60% compared to traditional uniform meshing approaches. Key findings demonstrate that hybrid element formulations and machine learning-enhanced FEM approaches show promising potential for complex structural behaviors. The review identifies critical gaps in validation protocols for highly nonlinear systems and recommends standardized benchmarking procedures for future research developments.
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