Global/local modelling of structures with local heterogeneity

For the numerical simulation of mechanical behaviors of structures with local heterogeneity, a global/local modelling technique using the finite element mesh superposition technique and shellsolid connection is proposed. Not only the global deformation but also three-dimensional stresses nearby the local heterogeneity can be analyzed precisely with less efforts than conventional methods. The finite element mesh superposition technique makes it possible to overlay local fine solid mesh which considers the local heterogeneity on global rough solid mesh which neglects the local heterogeneity. A plate structure that contains dissimilar material in a local portion is analyzed by the proposed modelling technique. The results agreed well with those calculated using the conventional three-dimensional fine mesh model.