A new boundary element technique for solving plane problems of linear elasticity: 1. Theory

A new boundary elements technique for solving plane problems of linear elasticity theory is described. The method is based upon the Muskhelishvili complex variable representation of the displacement and stress fields involving two independent complex functions. These functions are represented by complex Cauchy integrals where the path of integration is taken around the external boundary of the solid. Two complex density functions appearing in the integrands of the Cauchy integrals are represented by spline functions and these are determined by the application of appropriate boundary conditions. The theory presented is suitable only for bounded simply-connected regions.