Title: Automatic multi-node constrain algorithm and its application in vehicle structure analysis

Authors: Hongyan Li, Xianyue Gang, Lijun Li

Addresses: Department of Transport Engineering, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, China. ' Department of Transport Engineering, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, China. ' Department of Transport Engineering, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, China

Abstract: Based on the classic shape function theory, an automatic multi-node constrain algorithm (AMCA) is developed for inconsistent mesh. Taking an intermediate point as bridge, each constraint function is built with AMCA between one node in one surface and all the nodes of the approximate element in the other surface. Comparing with contact algorithm, AMCA has only a little increase in the stiffness of the structure, and achieves satisfying displacement and stress solutions with a great efficiency and speed. Its effectiveness is illustrated with a dual-plate problem and an application in truck frame.

Keywords: automatic multi-node constrain algorithm; AMCA; vehicle structures; structural analysis; finite element method; FEM; shape function theory; constraint functions; displacement; stress; truck frames; heavy vehicles; vehicle design.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCAT.2011.042227

International Journal of Computer Applications in Technology, 2011 Vol.41 No.1/2, pp.22 - 27

Published online: 01 Sep 2011 *

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