The software involves multiple complex calculations for a very large but finite number of elements in the component. Within just the past two years byte-crunching desktop computers have made it possible for engineers to perform FEA in their own offices. New software packages draw the necessary geometric shapes automatically, eliminating the tedious task of defining the shapes by hand. FEA programs also produce color-coded maps of expected stress areas, helping engineers design weldments, gussets, saddles, and other connections to better accommodate fatigue. The speed of FEA analysis allows engineers to explore design solutions more fully and provide clients with more analysis in design submittals.
Computer modeling plays a crucial role throughout the design process.
When we design a ride layout, we model the speed and forces at one-foot intervals. Speed and g forces are relatively easy to calculate that's just simple physics. But what really sets different coaster companies apart from each other are the different banking programs to calculate the turns and make the ride smooth. George Ladyman, president of the entertainment division of CUH2A, based in Princeton, New Jersey, says designers are also giving more consideration to how coasters look as they move through their runs. Roller coaster engineers design the form, shape, and function of the ride.