ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we discuss several techniques in the modeling and solution options of using the FEM. Applying these techniques can greatly improve the efficiencies and accuracies of the FEA.
Symmetry feature of a structure is the first thing one should look into and explore in the FE modeling and analysis. The model size can be cut almost in half and the solution efficiencies can be improved by several times. A structure possesses symmetry if its components are arranged in a periodic or reflective manner. Types of symmetries are (Figure 5.1):
• Reflective (mirror, bilateral) symmetry • Axisymmetry • Rotational (cyclic) symmetry • Translational symmetry • Others (or combinations of the above)
In the FEM, symmetry properties can be applied to
• Reduce the size of the problems and thus save CPU time, disk space, postprocessing efforts, and so on
• Simplify the modeling task • Check the FEM results (make sure the results are symmetrical if the geometry and
loading of the structure are symmetrical)
Symmetry properties of a structure should be fully exploited and retained in the FE model to ensure the efficiency and quality of FE solutions.
