Blender and 3D Studio Max are extensively used as well, to create, view and modify structures in a simulated environment. The software is also suited for use in academic research, industry or in everyday use.
MIDAS/Gen's capabilities include finite element analysis (FEA), shape optimization, surface generation and mesh generation. Such software is essential for the geodesic design of new materials with tailored mechanical, thermal, electrical, and chemical properties, for example for the laser-fabrication of polymeric or ceramic materials with structural, optical or magnetic properties [@bib2], [@bib3], [@bib4], [@bib5], [@bib6], [@bib7].
In this review, we will address many aspects of MIDAS/Gen's capabilities and user interface.
2. Finite element analysis {#sec2}
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The Finite Element Analysis (FEA) technique has been widely applied to structural engineering problems. The method provides a powerful tool to study the response of structures to external loads. Conventional FEA uses two-dimensional or three-dimensional models in which geometric shapes (e.g. bars, shells, or beams) are discretized into nodes, each of which is defined by geometric, material, and physical properties. The numerical values assigned to the geometric and physical properties of each node are considered as inputs to the model and the equations of motion are solved for each node to find the stress and strain in the model. FEA is usually the first step in the design process as it can be used to analyze any type of structure, and to optimize the design for a given performance level.
MIDAS/Gen provides a fully interactive user interface that allows the user to modify the mesh geometry, the material properties, and the boundary conditions (BCs) for a deformed model (see [Fig. 1](#fig1){ref-type="fig"}a and [Fig. 1](#fig1){ref-type="fig"}b). The final step of the analysis includes meshing and solving the linear system of equations for the equilibrium of forces and moments (see [Fig. 1](#fig1){ref-type="fig"}c).
For example, an analysis of an open-cell foam structure with circular nodes and with incompressible linear elasticity can be conducted by the following steps: •Step 1. Define the
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