Jorgen
2007-08-28, 21:08
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Finite element programs do not consider the units of given quantities , it is the user's responsibility to ensure that the given numbers have consistent units. There are numerous different sets of units that can be used when performing FE simulations. The best set of units will depend on the problem, typically the most accurate results are obtained if the units are chosen such that the values of the input quantities to the FE simulation are close to unity. By having the input quantities close to 1, the influence of round-off errors and truncation errors are reduced. A document (http://polymerfem.com/polymer_files/FEM_Dimensions.pdf) summarizing some the more common sets of of units and dimensions is given in the downloads section of this website.
Finite element programs do not consider the units of given quantities , it is the user's responsibility to ensure that the given numbers have consistent units. There are numerous different sets of units that can be used when performing FE simulations. The best set of units will depend on the problem, typically the most accurate results are obtained if the units are chosen such that the values of the input quantities to the FE simulation are close to unity. By having the input quantities close to 1, the influence of round-off errors and truncation errors are reduced. A document (http://polymerfem.com/polymer_files/FEM_Dimensions.pdf) summarizing some the more common sets of of units and dimensions is given in the downloads section of this website.