Geometry-dependent MITC method for a 2-node iso-beam element

Abstract

In this paper, we present an idea of the geometry-dependent MITC method. The simple concept is exemplified to improve a 2-node iso-beam (isoparametric beam) finite element of varying section. We first study the behavior of a standard 2-node iso-beam finite element of prismatic section, which has been widely used with reduced integration (or the equivalent MITC method) in order to avoid shear locking. Based on analytical studies on cantilever beams of varying section, we propose the axial strain correction (ASC) scheme and the geometry-dependent tying (GDT) scheme for the 2-node iso-beam element. We numerically analyze varying section beam problems and present the improved performance by using both ASC and GDT schemes.