With his doctorate in 1999, Dr. Dirk Bohmann developed the foundation for the finite element software MEPLA.

His innovative approach to laminated glass panes made it possible for the first time to realistically simulate visco-elastic deformation and stress behavior. In order to accelerate market entry, Dr. Bohmann concluded a cooperation agreement with SJ Software GmbH, which programmed the front end he designed for entering the data, while the complex calculation core was always developed and maintained entirely by Dr. Bohmann. His automated and efficient procedure was very well received in the industry because, in contrast to conventional FE software, it enabled the fast and precise calculation of all glazing geometries and glass structures in a short time.

During his civil engineering studies at the Technical University of Darmstadt, Leon Bohmann focused on the mechanical fundamentals that are crucial for the further development of the MEPLA core. His expertise in the mechanics of materials, micromechanics, continuum mechanics and glass construction expanded the scientific foundation of the program. In his Bachelor's thesis, he developed an independent FE program for modelling hyperelastic materials in three-dimensional systems. During his Master's degree, he specialized further in glass construction and polymers as well as advanced concepts of fracture mechanics. His master's thesis on the fracture behavior of thermally toughened glass panes will ideally complement his expertise in MEPLA technology.