Linear Elastic Finite Element Analysis Research Articles

An experimental investigation of cog-root strains in V-belts using birefringent coatings

A birefringent photoelastic coating was used in conjunction with a linear-elastic finite-element analysis in order to deline critical regions of cogged V-belts subjected to a purely geometric loading. The results indicate that cord-ply delamination in the midcog region adjacent to the cog root is a probable mode of failure.

Static Stresses by Linear and Nonlinear Methods

A nonlinear incremental loading finite element analysis is the best currently available method for calculating the static stresses in earth embankments, and is virtually the only available method for calculating static deformations. However, if deformations are not required, the static stresses may be calculated by a simpler gravity-turn-on linear elastic finite element analysis. Examples are presented of four dams each with several different loading conditions, in which stresses were calculated by linear and by nonlinear finite element procedures. The results from both methods were in close agreement. The calculated stresses were virtually independent of the Young's modulus parameters, except within the narrow cores of zone dams. The horizontal shear and normal stresses were strongly influenced by the selected values of poisson's ratio. However, if consistent values were used, the linear and the nonlinear analyses gave almost identical results. Recognition of the reliability of linear methods can lead to substantial savings. /ASCE/

Linear elastic finite element analysis of masonry walls on beams

A computer analysis has been made, using finite element methods, of the interaction between walls and their supporting beams. It is shown that the combined use of substructing and displacement constraining techniques enables a complex “macro” element to be easily derived, and its use gives a more economic solution than those provided by conventional finite elements of lower order. Results are compared with other analytical and experimental investigations and satisfactory correlation established.

Analysis of Bonded Joints in Vehicular Structures

Abstract : A linear elastic finite-element analysis is used to evaluate the behavior of an adhesive joint bonding a boron/epoxy composite to a metallic substrate. The adhesive layer is treated as a separate elastic medium of finite thick-ness in order to remove the stress singularity that exists when dissimilar materials are joined. Results are presented for a single lap joint and a smoothly tapered joint for two thicknesses of the adhesive layer. For the lap joint, peak shearing stress in the adhesive is located adjacent to the material with the lower modulus. The smoothly tapered joint is shown to have lower stresses and to be more efficient. Recommendations are given for alleviating stress concentrations and improving the design of bonded joints. (Author-PL)

Dynamic Response of Model Pavement Structure

Measurements of the stresses, strains and deflections occuring in a three-layer pavement structure subjected to dynamic surface loading are reported. These results are compared with theoretical values determined by linear elastic theory and finite element analysis. The silty clay subgrade and crushed stone subbase exhibited nonlinear stress-strain relationships. With a knowledge of these relationships, elastic theory could be used to calculate critical effects adequately for design purposes. An attempt has been made to characterize nonlinear materials approximately by using bulk and shear moduli rather than the conventional Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio.