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Applied Sciences
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Advanced Finite Element Method and Its Applications
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Advanced Finite Element Method and Its Applications

A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). This special issue belongs to the section "Mechanical Engineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 May 2024 | Viewed by 5594

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Valerio Belardi

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Enterprise Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via del Politecnico, 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
Interests: finite element analysis; anisogrid lattice structures; structural engineering; solid mechanics; structural analysis; mechanics of materials; finite element modeling; mechanical behavior of materials; stress analysis; mechanics of composite materials
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The finite element method has become a fundamental tool for many engineering disciplines, providing valuable simulation results to support the design process. The accuracy of these results has allowed researchers to streamline conceptual iterations in order to create a final product and has introduced new optimization possibilities.

Even today, research on this topic is highly relevant. Since the first applications, many scientific contributions have aimed to broaden the applications of the finite element method to encompass structural engineering, aerospace engineering, mechanics of materials, fracture mechanics, thermo-fluid mechanics, chemical engineering, electro-magnetism, manufacturing processes, and more recently, digital twins.

Therefore, this Special Issue aims to gather innovative research on the formulation of finite element solutions for specific problems, the derivation of custom approaches and in-house software, the definition of specific multi-physical workflows, and optimized approaches. Papers discussing algorithms for the numerical efficiency of the analysis and post-processing procedures are also welcome.

Dr. Valerio Belardi
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Applied Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • finite element analysis
  • numerical methods
  • semi-analytical methods
  • simulations
  • custom finite elements

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

18 pages, 3956 KiB  
Article
Application of Artificial Neural Networks to Numerical Homogenization of the Precast Hollow-Core Concrete Slabs
by Tomasz Gajewski and Paweł Skiba
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 3018; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14073018 - 3 Apr 2024
Viewed by 465
Abstract
The main goal of this work is to combine the usage of the numerical homogenization technique for determining the effective properties of representative volume elements with artificial neural networks. The effective properties are defined according to the classical laminate theory. The purpose is [...] Read more.
The main goal of this work is to combine the usage of the numerical homogenization technique for determining the effective properties of representative volume elements with artificial neural networks. The effective properties are defined according to the classical laminate theory. The purpose is to create and train a rapid surrogate model for the quick calculation of the mechanical properties of hollow concrete slabs. First, the homogenization algorithm was implemented, which determines membrane, bending and transverse shearing properties of a given parametrized hollow-core precast slab reinforced with steel bars. The algorithm uses the finite element mesh but does not require a formal solution of the finite element method problem. Second, the learning and training artificial intelligence framework was created and fed with a dataset obtained by optimal Latin hypercube sampling. In the study, a multilayer perceptron type of artificial neural network was used. This allows for obtaining rapid calculations of the effective properties of a particular hollow-core precast slab by using a surrogate model. In the paper, it has been proven that such a model, obtained via complex numerical calculations, gives a very accurate estimation of the properties and can be used in many practical tasks, such as optimization problems or computer-aided design decisions. Above all, the efficient setup of the artificial neural network has been sought and presented. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Finite Element Method and Its Applications)
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19 pages, 6418 KiB  
Article
Strength Reduction Method for the Assessment of Existing Large Reinforced Concrete Structures
by Oumaima Abra and Mahdi Ben Ftima
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 1614; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14041614 - 17 Feb 2024
Viewed by 476
Abstract
This work presents a new developed assessment methodology based on strength reduction and finite element methods which is suitable for existing large reinforced concrete structures commonly used in hydraulic constructions. The methodology is based on a reloading phase of the finite element model [...] Read more.
This work presents a new developed assessment methodology based on strength reduction and finite element methods which is suitable for existing large reinforced concrete structures commonly used in hydraulic constructions. The methodology is based on a reloading phase of the finite element model and is preceded by an intermediate reduction phase of concrete tensile strength and an initial loading phase up to service level. Rosenblueth’s point estimate method was used to compute a global resistance factor and to deduce a design resistance value of the structure. After validations, the methodology was applied to two existing complex and large hydraulic structures: a spiral case and a draft tube. If compared with existing methodologies using sophisticated non-linear finite element methods, the developed approach is simpler, more practical, and provides results that are on the conservative side. Considering the difficulties in characterizing the tensile peak and post-peak strength of concrete, along with uncertainties regarding the damage conditions of facilities, the developed methodology is deemed robust and well suited for assessing existing critical large reinforced concrete infrastructures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Finite Element Method and Its Applications)
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27 pages, 7704 KiB  
Article
Estimation of the Compressive Strength of Cardboard Boxes Including Packaging Overhanging on the Pallet
by Damian Mrówczyński, Tomasz Gajewski, Michał Pośpiech and Tomasz Garbowski
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(2), 819; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14020819 - 18 Jan 2024
Viewed by 619
Abstract
In this study, a numerical investigation was conducted on a verified packaging model, which sticks out beyond the pallet base area, which will evidently weaken its load-bearing capacity. This could lead to damage of the protected goods transported within this packaging. It might [...] Read more.
In this study, a numerical investigation was conducted on a verified packaging model, which sticks out beyond the pallet base area, which will evidently weaken its load-bearing capacity. This could lead to damage of the protected goods transported within this packaging. It might also result in the unnecessary overengineered design of the packaging, particularly when the potential for overhanging is anticipated beforehand, but its exact extent is not known. The article analyzed hundreds of cases, varying in terms of packaging dimensions (from 150 mm up to 600 mm), the extent of protrusion beyond the edge of the pallet (from 1% to 50% of box dimensions) and the use of various corrugated boards (B-, C-, EB- and BC-flute), in order to assess the decrease in the load-bearing capacity of the packaging compared to reference packaging, which was not overhanging on a pallet. For instance, it appeared that the decrease in the load-bearing capacity of the packaging when overhanging was insensitive to the corrugated cardboard material used. Additionally, the decrease in box strength was rapid while overhanging, even for a small value of overhanging. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Finite Element Method and Its Applications)
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13 pages, 878 KiB  
Article
Determination of the Probabilistic Properties of the Critical Fracture Energy of Concrete Integrating Scale Effect Aspects
by Mariane Rodrigues Rita, Pierre Rossi, Eduardo de Moraes Rego Fairbairn and Fernando Luiz Bastos Ribeiro
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(1), 462; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14010462 - 4 Jan 2024
Viewed by 643
Abstract
This paper presents an extension of the validation domain of a previously validated three-dimensional probabilistic semi-explicit cracking numerical model, which was initially validated for a specific concrete mix design. This model is implemented in a finite element code. The primary objective of this [...] Read more.
This paper presents an extension of the validation domain of a previously validated three-dimensional probabilistic semi-explicit cracking numerical model, which was initially validated for a specific concrete mix design. This model is implemented in a finite element code. The primary objective of this study is to propose a function that enables the estimation of the critical fracture energy parameter utilized in the model and validate its effectiveness for various concrete mix designs. The model focuses on macrocrack propagation and introduces significant aspects such as employing volume elements for simulating macrocrack propagation and incorporating two key factors in governing its behavior. Firstly, macrocrack initiation is linked to the uniaxial tensile strength (ft). Secondly, macrocrack propagation is influenced by a post-cracking dissipation energy in tension. This energy is taken equal to the mode I critical fracture energy (GIC) based on the linear elastic fracture mechanics theory. Importantly, both ft and GIC are probabilistic properties influenced by the volume of concrete under consideration. Consequently, in the numerical model, they are dependent on the volume of the finite elements employed. To achieve this objective, numerical simulations of fracture mechanical tests are conducted on a large double cantilever beam specimen. Through these simulations, we validate the proposed function, which is a crucial step towards expanding the model’s applicability to all concrete mix designs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Finite Element Method and Its Applications)
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13 pages, 2975 KiB  
Article
Thermoforming Simulation of Woven Carbon Fiber Fabric/Polyurethane Composite Materials
by Shun-Fa Hwang, Yi-Chen Tsai, Cho-Liang Tsai, Chih-Hsian Wang and Hsien-Kuang Liu
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(1), 445; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14010445 - 3 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 936
Abstract
A finite element simulation was utilized in this work to analyze the thermoforming process of woven carbon fiber fabric/polyurethane thermoplastic composite sheets. In the simulation that may be classified as a discrete method, the woven carbon fiber fabric was treated as an undulated [...] Read more.
A finite element simulation was utilized in this work to analyze the thermoforming process of woven carbon fiber fabric/polyurethane thermoplastic composite sheets. In the simulation that may be classified as a discrete method, the woven carbon fiber fabric was treated as an undulated fill yarn crossed over an undulated warp yarn, and the resin was considered separately. Then, they were combined to represent the composite sheets. To verify this simulation, bias extension tests under three constant temperatures were executed. After that, the composite was thermoformed into a U-shaped structure and small luggage. From the bias extension tests, the finite element simulation and material properties of the fiber and resin were confirmed. From the comparison of the thermoformed products, the present simulation could provide the deformed profile and fiber-included angles and has good agreement with the experiment. The results also indicate that the stacking sequences of [(0°/90°)]4 and [(+45°/−45°)]4 have quite different product profiles and fiber-included angles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Finite Element Method and Its Applications)
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20 pages, 4098 KiB  
Article
Stress Corrosion Cracking Analysis of a Hot Blast Stove Shell with an Internal Combustion Chamber
by Donghwi Park, Feng Guo and Naksoo Kim
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(22), 12297; https://doi.org/10.3390/app132212297 - 14 Nov 2023
Viewed by 704
Abstract
The stress corrosion cracking during the operation of the internal combustion hot blast stove was analysed. The computational fluid dynamics and finite element analysis models were established to analyse the temperature, stress and other variables related to the condensation of the water and [...] Read more.
The stress corrosion cracking during the operation of the internal combustion hot blast stove was analysed. The computational fluid dynamics and finite element analysis models were established to analyse the temperature, stress and other variables related to the condensation of the water and acids. The corrosion characteristics of condensation of acid and the stress corrosion cracking of the metallic shell of the hot blast stove during the operation were predicted by applying the fluid temperature and mapping it to the solid temperature. The stress corrosion cracking surface mobility mechanism was adopted and modified with a weight concept to consider the effect of the acid condensation and its concentration. The regions that have higher crack propagation rates were analysed. The influence of the increase in the blast temperature on the crack propagation rate was studied with the increase in the blast temperature by 45 K and 90 K from the reference blast temperature. The maximum temperature of the refractory linings was 1847 K in the on-gas period, and the maximum change in the shell temperature was 5.2 K when the blast temperature was increased by 90 K. The maximum crack propagation rate for the reference blast temperature was evaluated as 7.61×10−7 m/s. The maximum value of the crack propagation rate was increased by 16.7% when the blast temperature increased by 90 K. The conical region was found to have higher crack propagation rates, which means that the conical region should be the region of interest for managing the internal combustion hot blast stoves. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Finite Element Method and Its Applications)
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18 pages, 7794 KiB  
Article
Scripts to Insert Cohesive Elements at the Interfaces between Matrix and Precipitates with Irregular Shapes in Representative Volume Elements in ABAQUS
by Mohammadmehdi Shahzamanian, Zhutian Xu and Peidong Wu
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(22), 12281; https://doi.org/10.3390/app132212281 - 13 Nov 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1222
Abstract
A MATLAB algorithm was developed to insert cohesive elements at the interfaces between the matrix and precipitates in two dimensional (2D) representative volume elements (RVEs) of metals. The RVEs were created using OOF2 and imported into the “Complete ABAQUS Environment” (CAE) interface. These [...] Read more.
A MATLAB algorithm was developed to insert cohesive elements at the interfaces between the matrix and precipitates in two dimensional (2D) representative volume elements (RVEs) of metals. The RVEs were created using OOF2 and imported into the “Complete ABAQUS Environment” (CAE) interface. These RVEs are based on actual images of the metal at the microscale, where the precipitates have irregular shapes. The RVEs contain precipitates that are dispersed into matrix materials. Commercial finite element (FE) ABAQUS software does not provide the option to automatically generate cohesive elements at the interfaces. The presented algorithm enables the insertion of cohesive elements at the interfaces between the matrix and precipitate in a convenient manner. This algorithm enables the simulation of the fracture process, including initiation at the interfaces and propagation at microscale, for metals that contain precipitates and/or particles. This algorithm extends the simulation capabilities of the FE solver ABAQUS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Finite Element Method and Its Applications)
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