New B-Spline Finite Element approach for geometrical design and mechanical analysis

Abstract

In most existing CAD systems, geometrical design and mechanical analysis are operated as completely separate modules. Intensive interaction between these modules is, however, highly desired due to the iterative nature of a typical product development process. Formulating a new, unified approach to design and analysis that provides a high level of interaction is the main purpose of this research. The idea is to integrate a mechanically based geometrical design concept with the mechanical analysis module in a uniform B-Spline Finite Element (BSFE) environment. In this paper, the BSFE method is formulated and its validity and adequacy are verified for elastic linear rod and plate models. In particular, the feasibility of applying B-spline functions as base functions of the finite element method for design and analysis is demonstrated. Unique scheme attributes based on intrinsic properties of B-spline functions are investigated in detail. Method adequacy is demonstrated by comparing convergence characteristics, complexity and computational cost to the spectral element method. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.