An on-line distributed adaptive finite element analysis application is presented in the paper which is based on the client-server approach to distributed computing. It is implemented by creating a model of distributed computing which expands beyond a two layer model. A third, or a middle layer, is introduced in the form of the web server to isolate the operating system and the hardware platform from the application. The application model proposed in the paper consists of three layers, namely application, separation and distribution layers. A timing comparison between the distributed and the conventional versions of the application, carried out on a HP 9000/720 system and on a DEC Alpha 2100 5/250 system respectively, is presented. The results indicate a significant improvement in the performance of the application when a transition is made from conventional application design to a client-server based distributed computing paradigm. Other benefits include substantial amount of savings in administration and support costs of the application software, greater access to application services, improved portability, re-useability, and reliability.

purchase the full-text of this paper (price £20)

go to the previous paper
go to the next paper
return to the table of contents
return to the book description
purchase this book (price £82 +P&P)