Large Deformation Beam/Cable Element with Implicit Kinematic Model

摘要

This paper proposes a 3D 2-node element for beams and cables. Main improvements of the element are two new interpolation functions for beam axis and cross-sectional rotation. New interpolation functions employ implicit functions to simulate large deformations. In the translational interpolation function, two parameters which affect lateral deflection geometry are defined implicitly through nonlinear equations. The proposed translational interpolation function is shown to be more accurate than Hermitian function at large deformations. In the rotational interpolation function, twist rate is defined implicitly through a torsional continuity equation. Cross-sectional rotation which is strictly consistent to beam axis is obtained through separate bending rotation interpolation and torsional rotation interpolation. The element model fully accounts for geometric nonlinearities and coupling effects,and thus,can simulate cables with zero bending stiffness. Stiffness matrix and load vector have been derived using symbolic computation. Source code has been generated automatically.Numerical examples show that the proposed element has significantly higher accuracy than conventional 2-node beam elements under the same meshes for geometrically nonlinear problems.