Hybrid FE analytical methods for elastostatics and fracture mechanics

Abstract

Engineering structures find diverse applications in fields like aerospace, spacecraft, me- chanics, and civil engineering. To cater to these varied applications, structures incorpo- rate different features such as irregular-shaped openings and notches. When exposed to diverse environmental conditions, these structures are subjected to various loading scenar- ios. These attributes under different loading conditions significantly impact the structural strength, stiffness, and toughness. Hence, understanding the structural integrity involves analyzing stress and displacement in the vicinity of these discontinuities becomes essential and indispensable. newline newlineIn the early stages, numerous researchers developed and employed a variety of exper- imental techniques, such as Photoleasticty, Thermoelastic Stress Analysis (TSA), Strain gauge-technique, Moir´e Interferometry, Digital Image Correlation (DIC), and Holography, to analyze stresses and displacements in structures. However, these experimental meth- ods lack universal applicability, as quoted by Prof. Kobayashi referring to Prof. Durelli s second principle [1], and often necessitate post-processing of data for a thorough analysis. In many practical scenarios, problems are only partially specified, making it challenging to solve them using a single individual approach. This highlights the need for integrating with other techniques. Recognizing the inherent limitations in individual methodologies, synergistic methods have been developed. These approaches amalgamate the strengths of different individual techniques, each contributing to varying degrees, to achieve a near- complete or comprehensive solution for practical engineering problems. Over time, these complementary or synergized or hybrid approaches have evolved and emerged as effective and efficient alternatives to address practical engineering challenges. newline newlineDuring the Mid 1970s and 80s, researchers explored synergistic approaches by com- bining experimental techniques with analytical formulations.