Static Infinite Element Formulation

Abstract

In several problems of engineering and sciences, the domain of analysis extends to large distances in one or more directions. Such problems can be analyzed efficiently by the method of finite elements by using a combination of finite and infinite elements to discretize the domain of analysis. The existing approaches to formulating infinite elements have not been exploited to their full extent. In this research, these formulations are used to derive some advanced infinite elements with various forms of decay. The implementation of these elements and general formulation are verified by solving an elastic halfspace problem in axisymmetric as well as in plane strain formulations. Also, this method has been applied to the problem of a shallow underground opening in horizontal tensile stress field. The numerical and analytical results are found to be in satisfactory agreement. These infinite elements overcome the difficulties of parametric formulation and numerical integration, but are suitable for the problems of elastostatics only.