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An experimental investigation of the use of isoparametric and rational basis elements in a fluid flow problem
Author(s) -
Keast Patrick,
Woodford Gregory
Publication year - 1982
Publication title -
international journal for numerical methods in engineering
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.421
H-Index - 168
eISSN - 1097-0207
pISSN - 0029-5981
DOI - 10.1002/nme.1620180406
Subject(s) - basis (linear algebra) , simple (philosophy) , mathematics , element (criminal law) , polynomial , point (geometry) , flow (mathematics) , finite element method , basis function , calculus (dental) , enhanced data rates for gsm evolution , geometry , mathematical analysis , computer science , engineering , structural engineering , medicine , telecommunications , philosophy , epistemology , dentistry , political science , law
Abstract Three competing finite element techniques are applied to a simple flow problem in a region with curved boundaries. Only three‐sided elements are considered. The techniques are (1) straight‐sided elements, (2) isoparametric elements, both of which use polynomial bases, and (3) curved elements using rational basis functions. The broad conclusions are that both curved‐edge techniques are much superior to their straight‐sided equivalent and that rational basis functions are quite successful in practice but require slightly more effort to implement, and cost a little more in computer time. From the point of view of efficiency, isoparametric elements seem to be the best choice.