Modelling hydraulic fractures in porous media using flow cohesive interface elements

in Engineering Geology (2017), 225

Isogeometric analysis: an overview and computer implementation aspects

in Mathematics and Computers in Simulation (2015)

Isogeometric analysis (IGA) represents a recently developed technology in computational mechanics that offers the possibility of integrating methods for analysis and Computer Aided Design (CAD) into a ... [more ▼]

Isogeometric analysis (IGA) represents a recently developed technology in computational mechanics that offers the possibility of integrating methods for analysis and Computer Aided Design (CAD) into a single, unified process. The implications to practical engineering design scenarios are profound, since the time taken from design to analysis is greatly reduced, leading to dramatic gains in efficiency. In this manuscript, through a self-contained Matlab⃝R implementation, we present an introduction to IGA applied to simple analysis problems and the related computer implementation aspects. Furthermore, implementation of the extended IGA which incorporates enrichment functions through the partition of unity method (PUM) is also presented, where several examples for both two-dimensional and three-dimensional fracture are illustrated. We also describe the use of IGA in the context of strong-form (collocation) formulations, which has been an area of research interest due to the potential for significant efficiency gains offered by these methods. The code which accompanies the present paper can be applied to one, two and three-dimensional problems for linear elasticity, linear elastic fracture mechanics, structural mechanics (beams/plates/shells including large displacements and rotations) and Poisson problems with or without enrichment. The B ́ezier extraction concept that allows the FE analysis to be performed efficiently on T-spline geometries is also incorporated. The article includes a summary of recent trends and developments within the field of IGA. [less ▲]

Probabilistic multiconstraints optimization of cooling channels in ceramic matrix composites

in Composites. Part B, Engineering (2015), 81

This paper presents a computational reliable optimization approach for internal cooling channels in Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC) under thermal and mechanical loadings. The algorithm finds the optimal ... [more ▼]

This paper presents a computational reliable optimization approach for internal cooling channels in Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC) under thermal and mechanical loadings. The algorithm finds the optimal cooling capacity of all channels (which directly minimizes the amount of coolant needed). In the first step, available uncertainties in the constituent material properties, the applied mechanical load, the heat flux and the heat convection coefficient are considered. Using the Reliability Based Design Optimization (RBDO) approach, the probabilistic constraints ensure the failure due to excessive temperature and deflection will not happen. The deterministic constraints restrict the capacity of any arbitrary cooling channel between two extreme limits. A “series system” reliability concept is adopted as a union of mechanical and thermal failure subsets. Having the results of the first step for CMC with uniformly distributed carbon (C-) fibers, the algorithm presents the optimal layout for distribution of the C-fibers inside the ceramic matrix in order to enhance the target reliability of the component. A sequential approach and B-spline finite elements have overcome the cumbersome computational burden. Numerical results demonstrate that if the mechanical loading dominates the thermal loading, C-fibers distribution can play a considerable role towards increasing the reliability of the design. [less ▲]

Uncertainty quantification of dry woven fabrics: A sensitivity analysis on material properties

in Composite Structures (2014), 116

Based on sensitivity analysis, we determine the key meso-scale uncertain input variables that influence the macro-scale mechanical response of a dry textile subjected to uni-axial and biaxial deformation ... [more ▼]

Based on sensitivity analysis, we determine the key meso-scale uncertain input variables that influence the macro-scale mechanical response of a dry textile subjected to uni-axial and biaxial deformation. We assume a transversely isotropic fashion at the macro-scale of dry woven fabric. This paper focuses on global sensitivity analysis; i.e. regression- and variance-based methods. The sensitivity of four meso-scale uncertain input parameters on the macro-scale response are investigated; i.e. the yarn height, the yarn spacing, the yarn width and the friction coefficient. The Pearson coefficients are adopted to measure the effect of each uncertain input variable on the structural response. Due to computational effectiveness, the sensitivity analysis is based on response surface models. The Sobol’s variance-based method which consists of first-order and total-effect sensitivity indices are presented. The sensitivity analysis utilizes linear and quadratic correlation matrices, its corresponding correlation coefficients and the coefficients of determination of the response uncertainty criteria. The correlation analysis, the response surface model and Sobol’s indices are presented and compared by means of uncertainty criteria influences on MataBerkait-dry woven fabric material properties. To anticipate, it is observed that the friction coefficient and yarn height are the most influential factors with respect to the specified macro-scale mechanical responses. [less ▲]

Quasicontinuum-based multiscale approaches for plate-like beam lattices experiencing in-plane and out-of-plane deformation

in Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering (2014), 279

The quasicontinuum (QC) method is a multiscale approach that aims to reduce the computational cost of discrete lattice computations. The method incorporates small-scale local lattice phenomena (e.g. a ... [more ▼]

The quasicontinuum (QC) method is a multiscale approach that aims to reduce the computational cost of discrete lattice computations. The method incorporates small-scale local lattice phenomena (e.g. a single lattice defect) in macroscale simulations. Since the method works directly and only on the beam lattice, QC frameworks do not require the construction and calibration of an accompanying continuum model (e.g. a cosserat/micropolar description). Furthermore, no coupling procedures are required between the regions of interest in which the beam lattice is fully resolved and coarse domains in which the lattice is effectively homogenized. Hence, the method is relatively straightforward to implement and calibrate. In this contribution, four variants of the QC method are investigated for their use for planar beam lattices which can also experience out-of-plane deformation. The different frameworks are compared to the direct lattice computations for three truly multiscale test cases in which a single lattice defect is present in an otherwise perfectly regular beam lattice. [less ▲]

Explicit finite deformation analysis of isogeometric membranes

in Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering (2014)

NURBS-based isogeometric analysis was first extended to thin shell/membrane structures which allows for finite membrane stretching as well as large deflection and bending strain. The assumed non-linear ... [more ▼]

NURBS-based isogeometric analysis was first extended to thin shell/membrane structures which allows for finite membrane stretching as well as large deflection and bending strain. The assumed non-linear kinematics employs the Kirchhoff-Love shell theory to describe the mechanical behaviour of thin to ultrathin structures. The displacement fields are interpolated from the displacements of control points only, and no rotational degrees of freedom are used at control points. Due to the high order Ck (k ≥ 1) continuity of NURBS shape functions the Kirchhoff-Love theory can be seamlessly implemented. An explicit time integration scheme is used to compute the transient response of membrane structures to time-domain excitations, and a dynamic relaxation method is employed to obtain steady-state solutions. The versatility and good performance of the present formulation is demonstrated with the aid of a number of test cases, including a square membrane strip under static pressure, the inflation of a spherical shell under internal pressure, the inflation of a square airbag and the inflation of a rubber balloon. The mechanical contribution of the bending stiffness is also evaluated. [less ▲]

Stochastic modelling of clay/epoxy nanocomposites

in Composite Structures (2014), 118

This paper presents a numerical investigation of the mechanical properties of exfoliated clay/epoxy nanocomposites. The large scatter in the material properties and distribution of the inclusions and ... [more ▼]

This paper presents a numerical investigation of the mechanical properties of exfoliated clay/epoxy nanocomposites. The large scatter in the material properties and distribution of the inclusions and matrix is taken into account by introducing an appropriate stochastic damage modelling at the nano scale. Then, the overall properties of the nanocomposite are upscaled using computational homogenisation. Two mechanical properties are investigated: the random distribution of the homogenised Young’s modulus and the overall loss of stiffness observed in the case of extreme loading. The results obtained in the former case are in good agreement with experimental results from the literature. In the second case, we show that exfoliation does not significantly affect the overall strength of the nanocomposite. [less ▲]

Isogeometric analysis: an overview and computer implementation aspects

Learning material (2013)

Isogeometric analysis (IGA) represents a recently developed technology in computational mechanics that offers the possibility of integrating methods for analysis and Computer Aided Design (CAD) into a ... [more ▼]

Isogeometric analysis (IGA) represents a recently developed technology in computational mechanics that offers the possibility of integrating methods for analysis and Computer Aided Design (CAD) into a single, unified process. The implications to practical engineering design scenarios are profound, since the time taken from design to analysis is greatly reduced, leading to dramatic gains in efficiency. The tight coupling of CAD and analysis within IGA requires knowledge from both fields and it is one of the goals of the present paper to outline much of the commonly used notation. In this manuscript, through a clear and simple Matlab⃝R implementation, we present an introduction to IGA applied to the Finite Element (FE) method and related computer implementation aspects. Furthermore, implemen- tation of the extended IGA which incorporates enrichment functions through the partition of unity method (PUM) is also presented, where several examples for both two-dimensional and three-dimensional fracture are illustrated. The open source Matlab⃝R code which accompanies the present paper can be applied to one, two and three-dimensional problems for linear elasticity, linear elastic fracture mechanics, structural mechanics (beams/plates/shells including large displacements and rotations) and Poisson problems with or without enrichment. The B ́ezier extraction concept that allows FE analysis to be performed efficiently on T-spline geometries is also incorporated. The article includes a summary of recent trends and developments within the field of IGA. [less ▲]

NURBS-based finite element analysis of functionally graded plates: Static bending, vibration, buckling and flutter

in Composite Structures (2013), 99

In this paper, a non-uniform rational B-spline based iso-geometric finite element method is used to study the static and dynamic characteristics of functionally graded material (FGM) plates. The material ... [more ▼]

In this paper, a non-uniform rational B-spline based iso-geometric finite element method is used to study the static and dynamic characteristics of functionally graded material (FGM) plates. The material properties are assumed to be graded only in the thickness direction and the effective properties are computed either using the rule of mixtures or by Mori-Tanaka homogenization scheme. The plate kinematics is based on the first order shear deformation plate theory (FSDT). The shear correction factors are evaluated employing the energy equivalence principle and a simple modification to the shear correction factor is presented to alleviate shear locking. Static bending, mechanical and thermal buckling, linear free flexural vibration and supersonic flutter analysis of FGM plates are numerically studied. The accuracy of the present formulation is validated against available three-dimensional solutions. A detailed numerical study is carried out to examine the influence of the gradient index, the plate aspect ratio and the plate thickness on the global response of functionally graded material plates. © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. [less ▲]

An adaptive multiscale method for fracture based on concurrent-hierarchical hybrid modelling

Scientific Conference (2012)