A locally defined time-marching technique for structural dynamics

In this work, a new time marching procedure is proposed for structural dynamics analyses. In this novel technique, time integration parameters are locally defined and different values may be attributed to each structural element of the model. In addition, the time integrators are evaluated according to the properties of the elements, and the user may select in which structural elements numerical dissipation will be introduced. Since the integration parameters are locally defined as function of the structural element itself, the time marching technique adapts according to the model, providing enhanced accuracy. The method is very simple to implement and it stands as an efficient, direct, single-step procedure. It is second order accurate, unconditionally stable, truly self-starting and it allows highly controllable algorithm dissipation in the higher modes. Numerical results are presented along the paper, illustrating the good performance of the new technique.