A 2.5D finite/infinite element approach for modelling visco‐elastic bodies subjected to moving loads

Abstract

SUMMARYThe objective of this study is to propose a 2.5D ÿnite=inÿnite element procedure for dealing with the ground vibrations induced by moving loads. Besides the two in-plane degrees of freedom (DOFs) per node conventionally used for plane strain elements, an extra DOF is introduced to account for the outof-plane wave transmission. The proÿle of the half-space is divided into a near ÿeld and a semi-inÿnite far ÿeld. The near ÿeld containing loads and irregular structures is simulated by the ÿnite elements, while the far ÿeld covering the soils extending to inÿnity by the inÿnite elements with due account taken of the radiation e ects for moving loads. Enhanced by the automated mesh expansion procedure proposed previously by the writers, the far ÿeld impedances for all the lower frequencies are generated repetitively from the mesh created for the highest frequency considered. Finally, the accuracy of the proposed method is veriÿed through comparison with a number of analytical solutions.

Discrete mass modeling for dynamic response of buildings in the vicinity of railway tracks due to train-induced ground vibrations

“…The continuous mass method of solution mainly involves using the Finite Elements Method (FEM) and the Boundary Element Method (BEM). Mohammadi and Karabalis [8] and Yang and Hung [9] reported many studies concerned with the dynamic interaction of the structure and the soil. Also, the issue of the track stability and propagation of Rayleigh wave along the track, especially through the soft soil was studied by Estor et al [10] and Bode et al [11].…”

The effect of boundary conditions, model size and damping models in the finite element modelling of a moving load on a track/ground system

“…The use of boundary elements allows the infinite medium to be included, avoiding reflections at the edge of the modelled domain. As an alternative, a 2.5D finite element/infinite element method was developed by Yang et al [23] and used to study the transmission of vibration induced by trains moving at different speeds [24]. Again, the infinite elements are used to minimise the influence of the domain boundaries.…”

Finite Element Elastic Analysis of 3-D Flexible Pavements Under Moving Loads

“…Flexible pavements, modeled as elastic layered half-spaces under stationary or moving loads, have been analysed by various numerical methods such as the FEM, the boundary element method (BEM) or the layered system theory in matrix form [3][4][5][6][7][8].…”