APPLICATION OF LINK FE IN MODELING OF SPECIFIC BOUNDARY/INTERFACE CONDITIONS
D. Kovačević, R. Folić, Đ. Lađinović (UDC: 624.04:519.673)
Abstract
This paper presents the concept of so-called "link" finite elements (link FE) application in finite
element method (FEM) modeling of civil engineering structures. Some theoretical and
numerical aspects as well as modeling performance of link FE are discussed.
The basic approach considers the FEM structural modeling in simplified sense: after FE
mesh generation, i.e. system topology definition, follows modeling the FE stiffness and
theoretical boundary/interface conditions. Advanced approach, proposed in this paper, takes
into account real boundary and interface conditions and some particular phenomena modeling.
Required theoretical considerations, suggestions and recommendations for practical link FE
application in FEM modeling are given. Also, importance of Computer Aided Structural
Analysis (CASA) software choice is emphasized.
As an illustration of the theoretical considerations, four numerical examples are given. The
first example shows possibility of modeling the composite beam. Second example presents
effects in plate behavior when link FE are used. Third example explains behavior of "sandwichplate"
formed by a three layers. Fourth example is an illustration of reinforced concrete plate
modeling possibility.
