The time domain boundary element method for elastodynamic problems (Q805370)

In the present paper the formulation according to \textit{W. J. Mansur} [A time-stepping technique to solve wave propagation problems using the boundary element method. Ph.D. Thesis (1983)] and \textit{H. Antes} [Finite Elem. Anal. Des. 1, 313-322 (1985; Zbl 0584.73105)] is summarized first. \textit{C. C. Spyrakos'} approach [Dynamic response of strip-foundations by the time domain BEM-FEM method. Ph.D. Thesis (1984); with \textit{D. E. Beskos}, Int. J. Numer. Methods Eng. 23, 1547-1565 (1986; Zbl 0593.73086)] can be included in this general formulation as shown by \textit{R. Gallego} and \textit{J. Dominguez} [Commun. Appl. Numer. Methods 6, No.1, 17-25 (1990; Zbl 0683.73047)]. In fact, Spyrakos assumed a piecewise constant time interpolation function for both tractions and displacements whereas Mansur and Antes developed the case of piecewise constant time variation for the tractions and piecewise linear for the displacements. Results obtained using both approximations in time and assuming constant space interpolation functions are compared in the present paper. Quadratic space interpolation functions are also used, for the first time to the authors' knowledge, in combination with the transient elastodynamic BEM formulation. A comparison is made between results obtained with constant space interpolation functions, used in previous research, and those obtained with quadratic space interpolation functions. The use of the latter functions is shown to be necessary for an accurate solution of some problems. An analysis of the range of time increments for which the results are accurate is done for constant and quadratic space interpolation functions. The effect of boundary discretizations containing elements of variable sizes combined with that of the length of the time increment is also studied.