matrix bandwidth minimization
In the analysis of a structural problem by the finite element method, a large order stiffness matrix is created which describes mathematically the inter-connectivity of the system. The structure is defined in three dimensional space by discrete points called nodes. Each node is represented by its coordinates in the space. The nodes are then connected by the various finite elements that the particular computer program may utilize. (i.e., bar members, rectangular or triangular panels, three dimensional tetrahedrons, etc.)
bandwidth minimal analysis structure finite element method finite element order connection systems space point coordination computer programming