Prodigy, Inc.

FEA provides more detailed information for design than can be possibly measured on an actual component part or computed using classical closed-form solutions. Based on this observation, FEA is an ideal means for developing concept designs. No parts are needed for FEA, while conceptual design evaluation using “cut and try” procedures of the past requires that component parts be molded for testing. Once a rough concept has been developed, FEA can be used more effectively to evaluate design modifications in less than the time required by “cut-and-try” iterations. The major benefit that is realizable from FEA is in time savings. Computer costs can be justified by factors such as efficiency and better component reliability and performance.