An improved modal analysis for three-dimensional problems using face-based smoothed finite element method

Abstract

In this work, we further extended the face-based smoothed finite element method (FS-FEM) for modal analysis of three-dimensional solids using four-node tetrahedron elements. The FS-FEM is formulated based on the smoothed Galerkin weak form which employs smoothed strains obtained using the gradient smoothing operation on face-based smoothing domains. This strain smoothing operation can provide softening effect to the system stiffness and make the FS-FEM provide more accurate eigenfrequency prediction than the FEM does. Numerical studies have verified this attractive property of FS-FEM as well as its ability and effectiveness on providing reliable eigenfrequency and eigenmode prediction in practical engineering application.