B-spline finite elements for plane elasticity problems
Date
2007-04-25
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Publisher
Texas A&M University
Abstract
The finite element method since its development in the 1950âÂÂs has been used
extensively in solving complex problems involving partial differential equations. The
conventional finite element methods use piecewise Lagrange interpolation functions for
approximating displacements. The aim of this research is to explore finite element
analysis using B-spline interpolation. B-splines are piecewise defined polynomial curves
which provide higher continuity of derivatives than piecewise Lagrange interpolation
functions. This work focuses on the implementation and comparison of the B-spline
finite elements in contrast with the conventional finite elements. This thesis observes
that the use of B-spline interpolation functions can reduce the computational cost
significantly. It is an efficient technique and can be conveniently implemented into the
existing finite element programs.
Description
Keywords
Finite Elements, B-spline, Plane Elasticity