A C-0/G(1) multiple patches connection method in isogeometric analysis

In this study, we propose a method based on linear constraints for finding a connection between the patches during isogeometric analysis. A matrix is designed to denote the patch layout. The C-0/G(1) continuity conditions along the adjacent edges are obtained by the virtual mutual insertion of patches. They are treated as constraints on the structure balance equation, which are enforced by the static condensation method and the penalty method. Some examples are considered based on the Kirchhoff-Love shell and plane stress elements. Our results show that the constraints can maintain the patch continuities, where enforcement with the penalty method will work in all mesh cases, whereas the static condensation method is only applicable to matching and hierarchical meshes. The reasons for this phenomenon are also discussed and some suggestions about mesh creation are given. (C) 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.