FE methods refined through CUF Sample Clauses

FE methods refined through CUF. Despite significant advances in computing power, complex 3D FE models still im- pose large computational costs, especially during the iterative design stage. For this reason, reduced refined models may be used to obtain solutions with lower com- putational efforts. A general approach which can be employed to develop refined finite element models has been suggested in the book by Xxxxxxx et al. [15]. They introduced the Carrera Unified Formulations (CUF) in which the FE methods are formulated on the basis of a class of theories of structures. In fact, Xxxxxxx et al. [14] first developed a unified formulation for the 2D FE method (2D FE-CUF) to overcome the limitations of classical theories of plates and shells. A 1D FE method in framework of the CUF (1D FE-CUF) was later extended by Xxxxxxx et al. [17] based on the beam model to go beyond the classical beam theories. Indeed, the CUF has been able to enhance the capabilities of the 1D and 2D conventional finite element methods, so that using these refined methods leads to 3D-like solutions but with lower computational costs. Furthermore, analysis of multi-field problems such as mechanical, thermal, electric and magnetic fields, as well as of layered structures is of other outstanding features of the CUF models.