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Discussion of the Particle Finite Element Method in the Context of Strength of Materials
Author(s) -
Sabel Matthias,
York Duran José L.,
Sator Christian,
Müller Ralf
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
pamm
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 1617-7061
DOI - 10.1002/pamm.201510103
Subject(s) - finite element method , context (archaeology) , set (abstract data type) , meaning (existential) , particle (ecology) , boundary (topology) , interpretation (philosophy) , computer science , structural engineering , mathematics , engineering , mathematical analysis , geology , psychology , paleontology , oceanography , psychotherapist , programming language
In the context of the particle finite element method (PFEM) a body is considered as a set of particles that are meshed with standard finite elements before every load step. This enables the method to cope with large topological changes where the standard FEM often fails. To mesh the set of particles, its boundary needs to be detected which is accomplished with the α‐shape method, and although this method is often used within the PFEM, the crucial parameter α is not well understood. This article provides a physical interpretation of α and shows its meaning in the context of strength of materials. (© 2015 Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)