Object-oriented design of finite element calculations with respect to coupled problems

This paper presents a new object-oriented design of software for finite element calculations. Special attention is given to coupled problems with nonlinear materials. Fundamental ideas of object-oriented design, especially high cohesion, low coupling and encapsulation of classes, are strictly taken into account. The concept is guided by the idea to reuse as many parts as possible. The hierarchy of classes for the elements, materials and field problems can be extended easily by specialization.