The antioscillator model and the finite element method

A finite element model of a structure can provide useful knowledge of the structural response but such a model may also lead to a misunderstanding of the structure's behaviour. That is why a new model was developed, namely the antioscillator model. This paper explains how the antioscillator model can be obtained from a finite element model. The antioscillator model is particularly suitable for dealing with impact problems; for instance, it can provide parameters that have physical meaning, and can be used to forecast several impact results (the duration of impact for example). Moreover, it is shown how this model may select optimal degrees-of-freedom for simulations such that some dof can then be disregarded and the others are assumed to be necessary and sufficient.