Efficient GBT displacement-based finite elements for non-linear problems

Abstract

This paper addresses computational efficiency aspects of Generalized Beam Theory (GBT) displacement-based finite elements. It is shown that such efficiency can be significantly improved by using cross-section nodal DOFs (instead of deformation modes) since much smaller matrices need to be handled and the element stiffness matrix becomes significantly sparser. In addition, wall thickness variations, including holes, can also be considered. The deformation mode participations, which constitute the trademark of GBT, are recovered through post-processing. For illustrative purposes, several numerical examples, involving linear and non-linear (static) problems, are presented and discussed.