There are different numerical procedures that can be incorporated in the solution of nonlinear problems using the finite element method. A successful procedure must include the following:
- A control technique capable of controlling the progress of the computations along the equilibrium path (s) of the system.
- An iterative method to solve a set of simultaneous nonlinear equations governing the equilibrium state along the path (s).
- Termination schemes to end the solution process.
Additional schemes such as line search, acceleration, and/or preconditioning may be augmented to enhance the solution procedure.