Adaptive finite element analysis of structures under transient dynamic loading using modal superposition

In this paper, the error estimation and adaptive strategy developed for the linear elastodynamic problem under transient dynamic loading based on the Z–Z criterion is utilized for 2D and plate bending problems. An automatic mesh generator based on “growth meshing” is utilized effectively for adaptive mesh refinement. Optimal meshes are obtained iteratively corresponding to the prescribed domain discretization error limit and for a chosen number of basis modes satisfying modal truncation errors. Numerous examples show the effectiveness of the integrated approach in achieving the target accuracy in finite element transient dynamic analysis.