WHAMSE: a program for three-dimensional nonlinear structural dynamics

WHAMSE is a computer program for the nonlinear, transient analysis of structures. The formulation includes both geometric and material nonlinearities, so problems with large displacements and elastic-plastic behavior can be treated. Explicit time integration is used, so the program is most suitable for implusive loads. Energy balance calculations are provided to check numerical stability. The mass matrix is lumped. A finite element format is used for the description of the problem geometry, so the program is quite versatile in treating complex engineering structures. The following elements are included: a triangular element for thin plates and shells, a beam element, a spring element and a rigid body. Mesh generation features are provided to simplify program input. Other features of the program are: (1) a restart capability; (2) a variety of output options, such as printer plots or CALCOMP plots of selected time histories, picture (snapshot) output, and CALCOMP plots of the undeformed and deformed structure