About the B-spline wavelet discrete-continual finite element method of the local plate analysis

Abstract

Introduction. This distinctive paper addresses the local semi-analytical solution to the problem of plate analysis. Isotropic plates featuring the regularity (constancy) of physical and geometric parameters (modulus of elasticity of the plate material, Poisson’s ratio of the plate material, dimensions of the cross section of the plate) along one direction (dimension) are under consideration. This direction is conventionally called the basic direction. Materials and methods. The B-spline wavelet discrete-continual finite element method (DCFEM) is used. The initial operational formulation of the problem was constructed using the theory of distribution and the so-called method of extended domain, proposed by Prof. Alexander B. Zolotov. Results. Some relevant issues of construction of normalized basis functions of the B-spline are considered; the technique of approximation of corresponding vector functions and operators within DCFEM is described. The problem remains continual if analyzed along the basic direction, and its exact analytical solution can be obtained, whereas the finite element approximation is used in combination with a wavelet analysis apparatus in respect of the non-basic direction. As a result, we can obtain a discrete-continual formulation of the problem. Thus, we have a multi-point (in particular, two-point) boundary problem for the first-order system of ordinary differential equations with constant coefficients. A special correct analytical method of solving such problems was developed, described and verified in the numerous papers of the co-authors. In particular, we consider the simplest sample analysis of a plate (rectangular in plan) fixed along the side faces exposed to the influence of the load concentrated in the center of the plate. Conclusions. The solution to the verification problem obtained using the proposed version of wavelet-based DCFEM was in good agreement with the solution obtained using the conventional finite element method (the corresponding solutions were constructed with and without localization; these solutions almost completely coincided, while the advantages of the numerical-analytical approach were quite obvious). It is shown that the use of B-splines of various degrees within wavelet-based DCFEM leads to a significant reduction in the number of unknowns.