The use of computers in the design of discrete component systems

In the conceptual phase of mechanical engineering design, many design proposals are generated. The definite choice of promising designs is based on an evaluation of the performance of these concepts. For discrete component systems, part of this evaluation can be done by the finite element method, provided that this method is devised such that relatively large complex multi domain elements are available. Two examples are presented to illustrate the definition of such elements and the method of analysis.