Flaschel M (2026)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2026
Book Volume: 34
Article Number: e70189
Journal Issue: 3
DOI: 10.1002/cae.70189
Computational mechanics is inherently complex, as the underlying physical processes evolve in three spatial dimensions and time. Thus, intuitive visualizations in traditional lecture notes or on blackboards are challenging. This motivates the use of animation software to illustrate time-dependent three-dimensional phenomena, which complement conventional lectures and exercises and help to clarify otherwise abstract theoretical concepts. The mathematical foundations of computational mechanics—such as weak formulations in finite element analysis, the interpretation of the deformation gradient as the Jacobian of the motion mapping, or the tensorial nature of stress and strain—are often difficult for students to grasp intuitively. In response to these challenges, we discuss didactic approaches for conveying key concepts in computational mechanics, with a focus on continuum mechanics, tensor calculus, and the finite element method. We present concrete examples demonstrating how these concepts can be visualized using open-source software such as Matplotlib, Manim, and Blender. We summarize insights gained from the development of a series of educational videos on computational mechanics and discuss the didactic impact of visualization on student comprehension.
APA:
Flaschel, M. (2026). How to Visualize Computational Mechanics: Animating Finite Elements, Continuum Mechanics, and Tensor Calculus. Computer Applications in Engineering Education, 34(3). https://doi.org/10.1002/cae.70189
MLA:
Flaschel, Moritz. "How to Visualize Computational Mechanics: Animating Finite Elements, Continuum Mechanics, and Tensor Calculus." Computer Applications in Engineering Education 34.3 (2026).
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