An Alpha Finite Element Method for Linear Static and Buckling Analysis of Textile-Like Sheet Materials

Abstract

A four node isoparametric shell element (Q4) based on Mindlin/Reissner plate theory and the alpha finite element method (αFEM) was formulated for a nearly exact solution of linear static and buckling analysis of textile-like sheet material. The novel idea of αFEM-Q4 is assumed to be similar to the framework of conventional finite element approaches for Q4, but the gradient of strains is scaled by a factor α ∈ [0, 1]. The numerical examples demonstrate that the αFEM-Q4 can improve the accuracy of FEM solution in static and buckling analysis shell structures of non-woven fabric. However, the αFEM-Q4 cannot provide the nearly exact solution to all elasticity problems. In addition, it also requires a quadrilateral mesh that cannot be fully generated by common geometric algorithms for complicated problem domains.

Finite Element Model Updating for Composite Plate Structures Using Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm

“…For example, updating the beam model using random parameters under static stress [1], updating inaccurate parameters relying on the deformation of structures under static loads [2,3], and updating the FE model for the highway bridge by combining dynamic-static long-gauge strain responses [4]. In addition, some advanced FE models were proposed to deal with particular types of composite structures [5][6][7]. However, these solutions are currently laborious and costly, and there are too many uncertain factors, such as loads acting on the structure, measurement methods, or challenges in collecting data.…”