Finite element models (FEM) are nowadays used to calculate complex structures and mechanical systems. Since the grown calculation capacity of computers makes it possible to make more and more detailed finite element models, the file output of these programs can be enormous. It can be so large that you need to post process this data. Postprocessing may be defined as the “art of results representation”.
Post processing of finite element data generally requests additional software to organize the output such that it is easily understandable whether the construction is acceptable or not. It can include checks on the codes and standards to which the construction must comply e.g. the check of panel stiffened structures. Writing this software is part of the knowledge-based engineering principle.