Automating Finite Element Model Generation with Python

This conference presentation outlines how Python programming was used to automate the creation of a finite element model for modelling masonry wall constructions in a generalised format that can be applied to different wall bonding patterns, while remaining within the instance limits for crack definitions to function. An arbitrary index system was created for the masonry wall, upon which masonry unit features, mortar features, and bonding features were subsequently constructed. It was found that Python scripting was most effective at allowing the reuse of the initially developed detailed micro-model built for the Eindhoven walls to be rapidly adapted to other masonry wall tests and constructions. New models of masonry walls could be constructed in one hour, instead of weeks when done manually.