Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a mathematical method which is at the heart of simulation software. FEA uses 3D meshes of millions of cells to represent the complex geometry of an item. By performing calculations for every single point or cell in the mesh, then combining the results, FEA determines the overall result for the item.
FEA based simulation is used in product-design software to conduct graphical on-screen analysis of structural loads, thermal behaviour, and fluid flows.