Abstract
Finite element method is the most popular and important numerical method in geotechnical engineering analysis and design. In this chapter, the basic formulation for finite element method will be introduced, followed by the various procedures in the actual implementation of the method which are illustrated by several sample Fortran programs. The style of Fortran programming, mesh generation, bandwidth/profile minimizer as well as the development of modern thick plate element are used for the illustration of the various techniques required in developing a finite element program.
Keywords: Fortran, Finite element, Isoparametric element, Programming style, Plate element, Shape functions.