Implementation of the finite element method in the three-dimensional discontinuous deformation analysis (3D-DDA)

A modified three-dimensional discontinuous deformation analysis (3D-DDA) method is derived using four-noded tetrahedral elements to improve the accuracy of current 3D-DDA algorithm in practical applications. The analysis prograrn for the modified 3D-DDA method is developed in a C + + environment and its accuracy is illustrated through comparisons with several analytical Solutions that are available for selected problems. The predicted Solutions for these problems using the modified 3D-DDA approach all show satisfactory agreement with the corresponding analytical results. Results presented in this paper demonstrate that the modified 3D-DDA method with discontinuous modeling capabilities offers a useful computational tool to determine stresses and deformations in practical problems involving fissured elastic media with reasonable accuracy. Copyright (C) 2008 John Wiley & Sons. Ltd.