Finite element solution improved by full clamping element functions

• Published in: Engineering computations Vol. 18; no. 5/6; pp. 786 - 801
• Main Authors: Nikolic, Zoeljana, Mihanovic, Ante, Marovic, Pavao
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bradford MCB UP Ltd 01-01-2001; Emerald Group Publishing Limited
• Subjects: Accuracy; Clamping functions; Engineering; Equilibrium; Finite element analysis; Principles; Shape functions; Studies; Shape functions; Clamping functions; Finite element analysis
• ISSN: 0264-4401; 1758-7077
• DOI: 10.1108/EUM0000000005787

Presents a procedure for obtaining an improved finite element solution of boundary problems by estimating the principle of exact displacement method in the finite element technique. The displacement field is approximated by two types of functions: the shape functions satisfying the homogeneous differential equilibrium equation and the full clamping element functions as a particular solution of the differential equation between the nodes. The full clamping functions represent the solution of the full clamping state on finite elements. An improved numerical solution of displacements, strains, stresses and internal forces, not only at nodes but over the whole finite element, is obtained without an increase of the global basis, because the shape functions are orthogonal with the full clamping functions. This principle is generally applicable to different finite elements. The contribution of introducing two types of functions based on the principle of the exact displacement method is demonstrated in the solution procedure of frame structures and thin plates.