AN ASSESSMENT OF CURRENT FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS OF NONLINEAR PROBLEMS IN SOLID MECHANICS

Abstract

This chapter presents an assessment of current finite element analysis of nonlinear problems in solid mechanics. The finite element analysis of nonlinear problems in solid mechanics has acquired increasing attention. At present, various large scale computer programs and smaller special purpose codes are used that offer various analysis capabilities. However, although a large number of problems can already be solved effectively, all computer programs have serious limitations. The chapter discusses a few important aspects of finite element solid mechanics nonlinear analysis, the potential of the finite element method, a few important present research areas with an emphasis on numerical analysis procedures. The development of finite element nonlinear analysis procedures is based on knowledge in essentially three different disciplines: (1) continuum mechanics, (2) numerical analysis procedures, and (3) computer implementation. To enhance finite element nonlinear analysis procedures, it is necessary to develop new techniques, to establish theoretical basis to the techniques used, and to test the procedures on actual difficult practical problems.