Automated 3-D crack growth simulation

Automated simulation of arbitrary, non-planar, 3-D crack growth in real-lif e engineered structures requires two key components: crack representation a nd crack growth mechanics. A model environment for representing the evolvin g 3-D crack geometry and for testing various crack growth mechanics is pres ented. Reference is made to a specific implementation of the model, called FRANC3D. Computational geometry and topology are used to represent the evol ution of crack growth in a structure. Current 3-D crack growth mechanics ar e insufficient; however, the model allows for the implementation of new mec hanics. A specific numerical analysis program is not an intrinsic part of t he model, i.e. finite and boundary elements are both supported. For demonst ration purposes, a 3-D hypersingular boundary element code is used for two example simulations. The simulations support the conclusion that automatic propagation of a 3-D crack in a real-life structure is feasible. Automated simulation lessens the tedious and time-consuming operations that are usual ly associated with crack growth analyses. Specifically, modifications to th e geometry of the structure due to crack growth, remeshing of the modified portion of the structure after crack growth and reapplication of boundary c onditions proceeds without user intervention. Copyright (C) 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.