Non-linear dynamic modelling using Component Mode Synthesis

Abstract

This paper investigates the coupling of Component Mode Synthesis (CMS) and non-linear solution techniques to simulate the non-linear dynamic response of structures. CMS techniques can be used to model flexibility of substructures in a primarily rigid body dynamic solution through the use of modal superposition. The limitation of this technique, as implemented in commercial rigid body dynamics codes, is that only the linear elastic response of the substructure can be modelled. An implicit method is presented, which couples a fixed interface CMS technique with classical plasticity theory to approximate non-linear material effects during a dynamic simulation. An example problem is provided to indicate the accuracy and limitations of this type of solution technique.