Adaptive finite element analysis of structures under transient dynamic loading using modal superposition

In this paper, the error estimation and adaptive strategy developed for the linear elastodynamic problem under transient dynamic loading based on the Z-Z criterion is utilized for 2D and plate bending problems. An automatic m esh generator based on "growth meshing" is utilized effectively for adaptiv e mesh refinement. Optimal meshes are obtained iteratively corresponding to the prescribed domain discretization error limit and for a chosen number o f basis modes satisfying modal truncation errors. Numerous examples show th e effectiveness of the integrated approach in achieving the target accuracy in finite element transient dynamic analysis. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B. V. All rights reserved.