In this section, we'll cover the following:

• Validating our code by benchmarking against established solvers
• Introduction to OpenSeesPy and PyNite for plate analysis
• Building and analysing equivalent models in both libraries
• Comparing results across our solver and external tools
• Identifying and addressing shear locking in our implementation

In this section, we focus on validating our finite element code by comparing its output with trusted, open-source solvers. We introduce two Python libraries - OpenSeesPy and PyNite, and use them to model and analyse the same plate problem. By running equivalent simulations across all three solvers, we establish confidence in our results and gain practical experience using these powerful open-source tools.

We also explore the differences between the two libraries, noting OpenSeesPy’s research-driven, feature-rich capabilities and PyNite’s more streamlined, practice-oriented design. Through the comparison process, we uncover the phenomenon known as shear locking, which is an important numerical issue that is currently affecting our solver. We then examine the cause of this behaviour and implement a straightforward correction, improving the accuracy of our results while reinforcing the importance of validation in computational modelling.

Next up

In the next lecture, we begin the benchmarking process by building an equivalent plate model in OpenSeesPy.