Improved Finite Element Approach for Modeling Three-Dimensional Linear-Elastic Bodies

Abstract

Objectives: This paper proposes a general formula for computation of the stiffness matrix of three-dimensional linearelastic bodies by the method of Moment Schema of Finite Elements (MSFE). Methods: Numerical methods based on Lagrange variational principle, such as Finite Element Method (FEM) and the method of Moment Schema of Finite Elements (MSFE). The paper focuses on the problem of obtaining the stiffness matrices of Finite Elements (FE), which ensure effectiveness of the developed version of FEM. Variational principle for calculation of energy functional of rectangular three-dimensional finite element is used. Results: Analyses of various problems of mechanics of deformable solids shows slow convergence of traditional FEM, especially for rigid bodies and surfaces of complex curved shapes. This paper proposes a scheme for inference for FEM ratios, which takes into account the basic properties of rigid displacements for isoparametric and curvilinear FE. The presented version of FEM allows us to obtain the stiffness matrix of FE, taking into account the effect of a false shift and low compressibility of elastomers. Conclusion/Application: The general method to find the potential energy of three-dimensional linear-elastic bodies is proposed, which allows us to solve the problems of mechanics of complex structures with higher accuracy.