A matrix class library in C++ for structural engineering computing

Abstract Matrix computations are traditionally performed using procedural languages such as FORTRAN. This paper describes the object-oriented design and implementation of a matrix class library in C++. A wide range of abstractions and algorithms such as symmetric matrices, profile matrices, banded matrices, column vectors, and LU decompositions are presented which address a variety of time/ space demands in structural engineering computing. The object-oriented design presented here applies encapsulation, inheritance, composition, and type parameterization. Consistent semantics and uniform syntax of the interface is a major focus of the design for the matrix class library. Careful design to take advantage of the type system of C++, a strongly typed object-oriented programming language, allows potential misuses of abstractions to be detected at compile time. The proposed object-oriented matrix library not only improves the clarity and expressiveness of the client code, but also enhances its reliability.