Generalized finite element methods for three-dimensional structural mechanics problems

The present paper summarizes the generalized finite element method formulation and demonstrates some of its advantages over traditional finite element methods to solve complex, three-dimensional (3D) structural mechanics problems. The structure of the stiffness matrix in the GFEM is compared to the corresponding FEM matrix. The performance of the GFEM and FEM in the solution of a 3D elasticity problem is also compared. The construction of p-orthotropic approximations on tetrahedral meshes and the use of a-priori knowledge about the solution of elasticity equations in three-dimensions are also presented. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.