Abstract
The sharing of finite element analysis (FEA) data during the design process is a key requirement for success in collaborative design environments. However, the efficiency of sharing finite element analysis (FEA) data using a standardized neutral format is still relatively low because the format must accommodate a wide range of data types produced from multidisciplinary analysis applications. This paper proposes a strategy for efficient visualization and sharing heterogeneous FEA data in the collaborative design and review of ship structures. Our approach achieves substantial data compression by storing only essential FE information. An object-oriented approach is adopted maximize the efficiency of managing multidisciplinary data, our format also allows the use of multi-level management of FEA visualization data. The FEA model data and results are transformed into a common visual data architecture that is easily interpretable in virtual reality applications. We implemented a system based on our approach, several examples from commercial FEA systems are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the format. The virtual visualization of these complex FEA data effectively enhances the efficiency of scientific communication, model evaluation and validation, and interdisciplinary discussion of research findings.
