Frontal solver in C Part 1: Statics

Abstract

This paper presents a Frontal solver that is tailored for use on the IBM PC/XT or PC/AT microcomputers. The program is written in C and the program development environment—turbo C—is examined. This paper also includes a thorough discussion on the various constraints and techniques employed, such as the use of dynamic variables and general memory management, in the implementation of an effcient and compact solver. A full listing of the program and a driver program are provided for those who wish to develop their finite element programs in C while treating the solver as a “black-box.”