Introduction to the S-adaptivity method (Q1390893)

The \(S\)-adaptivity method uses a reference continuum and allows to analyze placed in this continuum actual structures (components). These correspond to the continuum and region in the continuum-region-element method. Within the reference continuum, a library of independent stress fields can be defined. The stress fields are naturally hierarchical, and the simplest stress fields are constant stress states which can be augmented with linear stress field. The independent stress fields are described by simple polynomials or by more complex functions. Each stress field in the library is in equilibrium and possesses its own independent force variable and a unique deformation field. Such stress fields will be referred to as admissible stress fields which are independent of the problem being analysed. To illustrate the method, the authors consider two examples: an axially loaded bar fixed at one end, and an axially loaded bar fixed at both ends.