Two basic approaches are provided in GMS for constructing a FEMWATER model: the model can be completely defined using the tools in the 3D Mesh module (the direct approach), or the model can be defined with the aid of the feature object tools in the Map module (the conceptual model approach).
For models with simple geometry and boundary conditions, the entire model can be constructed using the tools and commands in the 3D Mesh module. With this approach, the editing of the FEMWATER data is performed directly on the nodes and elements of the mesh. The first step is to create a 3D mesh covering the model domain using the mesh building tools in the 3D Mesh module. The boundary conditions and source/sink terms are then assigned by selecting nodes, elements, and element faces and assigning values directly to the selected objects. The model is then saved and FEMWATER is launched.
The preferred method for setting up a FEMWATER simulation is to use the feature object tools in the Map module to define a FEMWATER conceptual model of a site being studied. The conceptual model is a high-level description of the site including sources/sinks, the boundary of the domain to be modeled, rainfall and seepage zones, and material zones within each of the layers. The conceptual model is defined with feature objects, including points, arcs, and polygons, and is constructed independently of a numerical grid. Once the conceptual model is complete, a mesh is automatically constructed to fit the conceptual model, and the FEMWATER data are converted from the conceptual model to the nodes, elements, and element faces. The dialogs and interactive editing tools in the FEMWATER menu can then be used to edit or review the data if desired.
Related Links:
FEMWATER Interface