Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
500809 | Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering | 2005 | 22 Pages |
In this study we present a new approach to analyse cracked shell structures subjected to large geometric changes. It is based on a combination of a rectangular assumed natural deviatoric strain thin shell finite element and an improved linespring finite element. Plasticity is accounted for using stress resultants. A power law hardening model is used for shell and linespring material. A co-rotational formulation is employed to represent nonlinear geometry effects. With this, one can carry out nonlinear fracture mechanics assessments in structures that show instabilities due buckling (local/global), ovalisation and large rigid body motion. By numerical examples it is shown how geometric instabilities and fracture compete as governing failure mode.