Abstract
Finite element analysis of 3D phenomena gives as a result a set of function values specified on the nodes of the mesh. Various modes of graphical representation of such results are possible, including contour plots on cross-sections and surfaces of constant field values. In this paper, we propose an algorithm for the generation of such models. The continuous surfaces representing constant field values are obtained element-by-element by linear interpolation of nodal values. The normalized gradient of computed values is used for surface smoothing and shading. The method uses shaded polygon and shaded triangle strip primitives to meet with industry standards for graphical equipment.
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Breitkopf, P. An algorithm for construction of iso-valued surfaces for finite elements. Engineering with Computers 14, 146–149 (1998). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01213588
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01213588