Microcomputers have an essential impact on structural/mechanica1 engineering applications. Microcomputers have not replaced mainframes and cannot be reasonably used to solve large analytical problems. However, with appropriate software, micro-computers can serve as a powerful labor saving tool for engineers, architects, physicists, educators, students and researchers.

Using conventional methods such as hand calculations, desk calculators or mainframes, calculation of input parameters, preliminary and parametric studies, and verification and interpretation of analytical results are cumbersome, if not impossible, tasks. Calculation of input parameters often require repetitive number crunching, gross approximations and extensive error checking. Preliminary and parametric studies, sometimes performed using equations provided by well-known reference books, are time consuming and tedious. Verification and interpretation of results, an extremely important phase of any analysis, are sometimes ignored due to the complexity of the models and analyses. Instead, engineers may rely too heavily on large volumes of almost unmanageable computer output.

DE/CAASE has been developed by engineers using database and equation solving techniques. This program will not only simplify these tasks, but also provides more reliable analyses in comparison with previously available methods. By reducing the risk of error, minimizing time and costs associated with these tasks and optimizing analysis parameters, DE/CAASE solutions provide the engineer with more confidence in the analytical model and the results.

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