Finite-element applications to the nonlinear mechanics of solids [Review]

摘要

The paper discusses some of the relevant computational advances which permit the simulation of large-scale problems involving nonlinear solids within realistic time frames and computational resources, The need for rigorous consideration of both theoretical and algorithmic issues is emphasized, particularly in relation to the computational treatment of finite-strain elasto-plastic (viscoplastic) deformation, the modelling of frictional contact conditions and element technology capable of dealing with material incompressibility. Practically important aspects such as adaptive mesh refinement procedures are discussed and attention is given to choice of appropriate error estimators for elasto-plastic materials and the transfer of solution parameters between successive meshes. The role of explicit solution techniques in the simulation of large-scale nonlinear problems is also discussed. The concept of discrete elements is briefly described and their applications to a wide range of solid mechanics problems illustrated. Some advances in the field of iterative equation solution methods are reviewed and their potential advantages in the simulation of large-scale nonlinear solid mechanics problems are demonstrated. [References: 123]