Finite-element modeling of beam frame structures as a tool for integrating subjects in engineering education

The article discusses the approach to creating a methodical basis for the technical university majors that deal with analyzing strength and rigidity, design process and optimization of mechanical structures. Three majors „Computer science", „Mechanics", and „CAD/CAE" are considered. It is shown, that FE modeling of beam-frame systems is the interdisciplinary problem domain allowing to determine an effective way to teach the basic principles of the object-oriented programming and computer graphics as practical tools (computer science), to create theoretical base for studying FEM, to develop initial skills for CAE-systems using, programming for application tasks (Mechanics), and, at last, to create the base for professional solution of the problems of designing in modern CAE-environments (CAD/CAE).