Search NASASearch

Engineering topics

Nour-Omid, B.

Publications and source records attributed to Nour-Omid, B..

Concurrent Finite-Element Analysis On Hypercube Computers

Improved approach to execution of finite-element codes on hypercube and similar concurrent data processors increases efficiency of computation for many different types of problems. Based on flexible general model of computation on, and communication among, large-node parallel processors. Hybrid combining direct methods within subdomains and preconditioned-conjugate-gradient (PCG) iteration on remaining boundary system to obtain method of solution both robust and efficient. Preserves general structure and function of conventional sequential finite-element-method software. Generalized to both distributed- and shared-memory multicomputers, eliminating degree of machine specificity restricting general usefulness.

Lyzenga, G. A.

Comparison of two matrix data structures for advanced CSM testbed applications

The first section describes data storage schemes presently used by the Computational Structural Mechanics (CSM) testbed sparse matrix facilities and similar skyline (profile) matrix facilities. The second section contains a discussion of certain features required for the implementation of particular advanced CSM algorithms, and how these features might be incorporated into the data storage schemes described previously. The third section presents recommendations, based on the discussions of the prior sections, for directing future CSM testbed development to provide necessary matrix facilities for advanced algorithm implementation and use. The objective is to lend insight into the matrix structures discussed and to help explain the process of evaluating alternative matrix data structures and utilities for subsequent use in the CSM testbed.

Regelbrugge, M. E.

Efficiency of group implicit concurrent algorithms for transient finite element analysis

The performance of group implicit algorithms is assessed on actual concurrent computers. It is shown that, as the number of subdomains is increased, performance enhancements are derived from two sources: the increased parallelism in the computations; and a reduction in equation solving effort. Moreover, these two performance enhancements are synergistic, in the sense that the corresponding speed-ups are multiplied, rather than merely added. Simulations on a 32-node hypercube are presented for which the interprocessor communications efficiencies obtained are consistently in excess of 90 percent.

Ortiz, M.

Concurrent algorithms for transient FE analysis

Information on concurrent algorithms for transient finite element analysis is given in viewgraph form. Information is given on concurrent dynamic algorithms, interprocessor communication, the performance of the BAR problem on the 32 Processor Hypercube, computational efficiency and accuracy analysis.

Ortiz, M.

Solving finite element equations on concurrent computers

This paper discusses the development of a concurrent algorithm for the solution of systems of equations arising in finite element applications. The approach is based on a hybrid of direct elimination method and preconditioned conjugate iteration. Two different preconditioners are used; diagonal scaling and a concurrent implementation of incomplete LU factorization. First, an automatic procedure is used to partition the finite element mesh into sub-structures. The particular mesh partition is chosen to minimize an estimate of the cost for evaluating the solution using this algorithm on a concurrent computer. These procedures are implemented in a finite element program on the JPL/CalTech MARK III hypercube computer. An overview of the structure of this program is presented. The performance of the solution method is demonstrated with the aid of a number of numerical test runs, and its advantages for concurrent implementations are discussed. Efficiency and speed-up factors over sequential machines for the numerical examples are highlighted.

Nour-Omid, B.