Enhancing Transparency and Reproducibility in Finite Element Analysis through Comprehensive Reporting Parameters A Review

Year 2024, Volume: 11 Issue: 3, 212 - 222, 17.09.2024

Aun Haider

https://doi.org/10.31202/ecjse.1436203

Abstract

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) serves as a valuable tool, offering an approximate resolution to partial differential equations, finding extensive utility in structural analysis and design. Intrinsic nature of approximation in FEA underscores the indispensability of meticulous documentation to inspire confidence in the derived outcomes. While comprehensive guidelines for model development abound, there exists a conspicuous absence of a standardized framework explicitly addressing reporting and communication facets of FE studies. Dearth of consistent documentation standards imparts a veneer of opacity to reported FE studies, hindering the requisite transparency essential for objective evaluation. In case, FE analyst remains oblivious to limitations inherent in FE model and simulation platform, reviewers and end-users consequently remain uninformed.
Evaluation and refinement of FE models can only be realized when a complete and coherent documentation of simulation studies is at hand. This paper endeavours to present pertinent reporting parameters crucial for a comprehensive understanding and reproducibility of FE studies. Encompassing aspects such as analysis description, model identification, structural modeling, discretization schemes, solver settings, and post-processing details, these reporting parameters aim to furnish a holistic view of simulation process. Furthermore, the manuscript explores realms of sensitivity analysis, verification, and validation (V & V) as indispensable components to fully establish predictive performance of FE models.
This paper concludes by advocating for the widespread dissemination of finite element models, affording prospective users the chance to scrutinize and improve upon these models. Illustrated through a case study involving an FE model of a wing rib, the presented reporting parameters establish a foundation for assessing overall quality and scientific rigour of simulation studies. They contribute to the establishment of accountability, reproducibility, and usability in the realm of FEA. Acknowledging dynamic nature of modeling and simulation techniques, these parameters are recognized as subject to evolution. Additionally, it is suggested that any supplementary parameters influencing accuracy of FE models should be duly incorporated for a more nuanced and exhaustive evaluation.

Keywords

Finite Elements Analysis, Reporting Parameters, Meshing, Pre-processing, Post Processing, Solver Setting, Sensitivity Analysis, Verification, Validation

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