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Figure 3.6: Mesh control using Sweeping Techniques <strong>an</strong>d Algorithms<br />

3.4.3 Types of Algorithms<br />

In FEA, there are m<strong>an</strong>y types of algorithms that c<strong>an</strong> be used based on the<br />

complexity of the model configurations. In a commercial ABAQUS software, for<br />

example, Adv<strong>an</strong>cing Front algorithms have proved to be ideal for tri<strong>an</strong>gular,<br />

quadrilateral <strong>an</strong>d even tetrahedral meshes because of the connectivity of these simple<br />

element shapes. If the medial axis algorithm was used for example in a 2D modelling, a<br />

free mesh generated with quadrilateral-dominated elements will be similar to a free<br />

mesh generated with all quadrilateral elements <strong>an</strong>d without tr<strong>an</strong>sition minimisation.<br />

ABAQUS CAE normally inserts a few isolated tri<strong>an</strong>gles in <strong>an</strong> effort to match the mesh<br />

seeds more closely. Therefore, a mesh with quadrilateral-dominated elements<br />

sometimes c<strong>an</strong> be generated faster th<strong>an</strong> a mesh with all quadrilateral elements<br />

(ABAQUS Inc <strong>an</strong>d DS, 2007).<br />

Another class of algorithms are overlay grid, octree or inside-out methods that<br />

follow a top-down approach by placing elements on the inside of the volume first,<br />

63

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