A total-Lagrangian position-based FEM applied to physical and geometrical nonlinear dynamics of plane frames including semi-rigid connections and progressive collapse

In this study we apply the total Lagrangian formulation based on positions to develop a strategy for the physical and geometrical nonlinear analysis of plane structures and mechanisms. The developed frame elements have cross sections constituted by laminas of different materials and widths. The Reissner-Mindlin kinematics is adopted to include shear effects into the formulation. These elements are connected among each other by semi-rigid connections. Both elements and connections have multi-linear elastoplastic behavior with isotropic hardening. An alternative flow direction rule, which allows the reproduction of any stress-strain curve and the determination of closed solution for the plastic multiplier, is shown. All steps to reproduce the formulation are provided. Various examples are used to demonstrate the good behavior of the formulation, including a progressive collapse analysis of a tall building subjected to a real seismic load. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.