Computational solid mechanics (finite elements and boundary elements) - Present status and future directions

Abstract

Computational finite-element and boundary-element methods are reviewed, and their application to the mechanics of solids is discussed. Stability conditions for general FEMs are considered in addition to the use of least-order, stable, invariant, or hybrid/mixed isoparametric elements as alternatives to the displacement-based isoparametric elements. The use of symbolic manipulation, adaptive mesh refinement, transient dynamic response, and boundary-element methods for linear elaslticity and finite-strain problems of inelastic materials are also discussed.