Reproducing kernel particle methods for large deformation analysis of nonlinear structures (Q1371795)

Large deformation analysis of nonlinear elastic and inelastic structures based on reproducing kernel particle methods (RKPM) is presented. The method requires no explicit mesh in computation and therefore avoids mesh distortion difficulties in large deformation analysis. The current formulation considers hyperelastic and elasto-plastic materials since they represent path-independent material behaviors, respectively. The essential boundary conditions are introduced by the use of a transformation method. The numerical results indicated that RKPM handles large material distortion more effectively than finite elements due to its smoother shape functions and, consequently, provides a higher solution accuracy under large deformation.