Integration of Large Deformation Finite Element Formulations in Flexible Multibody System Algorithms

摘要

This project deals with the new and challenging problem of implementing large deformation finite element (FE) formulations in flexible multibody system (MBS) algorithms. Successful integration of large deformation FE and MBS algorithms will lead to a new generation of simulation codes that can be used in the analysis, design and performance evaluation of mechanical and aerospace systems. Specifically, the objectives of this project are (1) Different formulations used in the dynamic modeling of flexible MBS will be reviewed and evaluated in order to identify the advantages and drawbacks of each method; (2) The constrained nonlinear equations of motion expressed in terms of different sets of coordinates that can be efficiently used to describe the dynamics of rigid, flexible, and very flexible bodies will be developed; (3) Large deformation Cholesky coordinates will be used to develop a new form of the MBS dynamic equations with optimum sparse matrix structure; (4) Quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the effect of the nonlinear dynamic coupling between the reference motion and the large deformation modes will be performed; (5) The use of the computational methodology developed in this research project in the analysis of mechanical systems will be demonstrated. This report summarizes the main accomplishments made in this research project.