Combining the advantages of GBT and shell finite elements: linear/non-linear analyses and modal decomposition

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Abstract

This paper extends previous work by the authors, intended to contribute towards a more efficient modelling of thin-walled members and frames, by combining the advantages of Generalized Beam Theory (GBT) — mechanical clarity stemming from the modal decomposition of the solution — and conventional shell finite elements — versatility and reduced computational effort in non-linear problems. Two approaches are explored: (i) combining, in the same model, GBT-based beam and shell finite elements, and (ii) recovering the GBT deformation mode participations through post-processing shell finite element analysis results. The first approach, already presented by the authors (Manta et al. 2020, 2021a-c) for the geometrically linear and bifurcation cases, is now extended to large displacement elastic and elastoplastic analyses, using a geometrically exact beam finite element. In this approach, beam elements are used in the elastic and prismatic zones, while shell elements are employed in the remaining model. The second approach is useful when GBT-based beam elements cannot be used or are not computationally competitive and, since its implementation in standard finite element programs (such as commercial software packages) is relatively straightforward, it has a great potential of application in structural design, enabling the reinterpretation of shell finite element results in the light of GBT.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationStructural Stability Research Council Conference 2022
Subtitle of host publication Held in conjunction with NASCC: The Steel Conference
Place of PublicationChicago
PublisherStructural Stability Research Council (SSRC)
Pages257-293
Number of pages37
ISBN (Print)978-1-7138-4526-3
Publication statusPublished - 2022
EventStructural Stability Research Council Conference 2022, Held in conjunction with NASCC: The Steel Conference - Atlanta, United States
Duration: 22 Mar 202225 Mar 2022

Conference

ConferenceStructural Stability Research Council Conference 2022, Held in conjunction with NASCC: The Steel Conference
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityAtlanta
Period22/03/2225/03/22

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