- Finite element method for structural analysis -

Isoparametric elements.
D. Trias
Universitat de Girona

Preliminary concepts

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Aim: define shape functions such as, when the mesh is refined the approximate solution tends to the exact solution Which conditions must the shape functions satisfy? 1. Within each element s.f. must be smooth C1 2. S.f. must be continuous across the element boundary 3. S.f. must be complete

- (1) and (2) guarantee that in the worst case, derivatives (needed in matrix B) of s.f. will have finite jumps across the element boundary - Condition (3) is needed for the correct mapping (discussed later)

Why are iso-p elements needed?

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Generate shape functions in a more systematic manner

- Compute derivatives, integrals, areas, etc. is easier and faster in regular domains

y 1

-1 -1 x

- We may write shape functions in isoparametric coordinate system, but we still want the solution (displacements, strains and stresses) expressed in usual x,y,z coordinates.

Isoparametric Representation of Finite Elements Element Geometry (x,y) and displacement u(x,y) are represented by same set of shape functions. Example 2D 3-noded element:

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Isoparametric Representation of Finite Elements Example:

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Iso-P Representation of Finite Elements

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u,v

in 3D: 1,x,y becomes 1,x,y,z

Iso-P Representation of Finite Elements

Iso-parametric representation of 2D solid elements with n nodes:

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Iso-P Representation of Finite Elements

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in 3D: 1,x,y becomes 1,x,y,z

Complete polynomials
In 2D, a n-degree complete polynomial may be written:

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And the number of terms:

A graphical way to identify the terms of a complete polynomial is given by the Pascal triangle:

Isoparametric mapping Example: 4-noded element with 2 d.o.f. per node:

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Completeness Checks

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2D Iso-P elements
Linear Triangle

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Quadratic Triangle

Cubic Triangle

2D Iso-P elements
4-Node Bilinear Quadrilateral

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9-Node Bilinear Quadrilateral

What determines the order of the element?

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Lagrangian elements are not always optimal from a computational point of view

2D Iso-P elements
8-Node Serendipity Quadrilateral

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Iso-P Representation of Finite Elements Advantages:

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-Procedure to develop the formulation is the same for all iso-P elements. -Quick construction of shape functions.

Disadvantages:
-Low-order iso-P elements may be poor performers (overstiff). -Method does not extend to plate bending and shell elements.

Jacobian Matrix and Inverse Jacobian Shape functions in terms of ,

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Strains/stresses in x,y

Computing the Jacobian Matrix

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Computing the partial derivatives of N

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Strain Displacement Matrix B

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4-Node Bilinear Quadrilateral: Stiffness matrix

Gauss Integration Rules. One dimensional

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Gauss Integration Rules. Two dimensional product

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Geometric interpretation of J =det J

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Gauss Integration of Stiffness Matrix

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