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Recent advances in computer hardware and software have made multiprocessing a viable and attractive technology. This paper reviews high‐performance computing methods in structural mechanics and engineering through the use of a new generation of multiprocessor computers. The paper presents an overview of vector pipelining, performance metrics for parallel and vector computers, programming languages, and general programming considerations. Recent developments in the application of concurrent processing techniques to the solution of structural mechanics and engineering problems are reviewed, with special emphasis on linear structural analysis, nonlinear structural analysis, transient structural analysis, dynamics of multibody flexible systems, and structural optimization.

A set of algorithms built on well‐established interaction equations are presented for the design of concrete columns. The algorithms employ modified linear‐interpolation‐based interval methods for solving associated nonlinear equations. The nonlinear nature of column capacity equations is presented in the light of the numerical methods employed. The algorithms discussed are stable and efficient, thereby allowing multiple loading situations to be considered with minimal computational effort. Personal‐computer design systems using these methods can retain an interactive nature in practical design scenarios. These scenarios may include biaxial bending of circular‐ and rectangular‐shaped columns. Also presented is the overall flow chart for an interactive concrete design system, as well as a brief discussion of the various items in the chart. The design system represented by this flow chart is being used by a major consulting firm with several offices in the United States. Many reinforced concrete column designs have been successfully completed using this design system.