Adaptive meshing for local quality of FE stresses

Abstract

Purpose

In this paper, we focus on the quality of a 2D elastic finite element analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

Our objective is to control the discretization parameters in order to achieve a prescribed local quality level over a dimensioning zone. The method is based on the concept of constitutive relation error.

Findings

The method is illustrated through 2D test examples and shows clearly that in terms of cost, this technique provides an additional benefit compared to previous methods.

Research limitations/implications

The saving would be even more significant if this mesh adaptation technique were applied in three dimensions. Indeed, in 3D problems, the computing cost is vital and, in general, it is this cost that sets the limits.

Practical implications

This tool is directly usable in the design stage.

Originality/value

The new tool developed guarantees a local quality level prescribed by the user.

Citation

Florentin, E., Gallimard, L., Pelle, J. and Rougeot, P. (2005), "Adaptive meshing for local quality of FE stresses", Engineering Computations, Vol. 22 No. 2, pp. 149-164. https://doi.org/10.1108/02644400510585466