Efficient Component-Wise Finite Elements for the Dynamic Response Analysis of Metallic and Composite Structures

This paper presents a novel component-wise (CW) approach for the finite element, dynamic response analysis of composite structures. In a CW model, each component of a complex structure can be modelled through a refined 1D model based on the Carrera Unified Formulation (CUF). The CUF allows the use of any order 1D structural models in a unified manner. Finite element matrices are obtained using a set of a few fundamental nuclei that are independent of the structural model order. The adoption of only 1D finite elements to model complex structures improves the multi-dimension coupling capabilities and reduces the computational costs to a great extent. The CW leads to finite element models in which fibres, matrix, and plies can be modelled through the 1D CUF models. Furthermore, the CW can be seen as a physics-based approach. In fact, a detailed physical description of a real structure can be obtained placing the problem unknown variables on the physical surfaces of the real 3D model. No artificial surfaces or lines are needed, and the CAD-FEM coupling is facilitated. Each component can be modelled with its material characteristics; that is, no homogenization techniques are required. In this paper, the CW is exploited for the dynamic response analysis of structures is presented. The CW capabilities are compared to those of classical techniques and commercial codes to prove the CW high accuracy and low computational cost.