Multi-Scale Finite Element Simulation Framework for Deformation and Damage of Large Structure Under Complex Loadings.

Area of Science:

• Computational Mechanics
• Materials Science
• Structural Engineering

Background:

• Analyzing large-scale structures under complex loads requires high-resolution models.
• Traditional methods struggle to balance accuracy and computational efficiency across multiple scales.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a multi-scale nested sub-modeling finite element simulation framework.
• To enable accurate deformation, damage, and fatigue analysis from macroscopic to microscopic scales.
• To improve computational efficiency while maintaining high solution accuracy in critical regions.

Main Methods:

• Sequential displacement solution transfer from global to local sub-models.
• Progressive high-resolution analysis from >10 m down to ~1 μm scales.
• Integration with crystal plasticity finite element method and fatigue indicator parameter model.

Main Results:

• Validation on shell structures and cracked plates showed relative errors within 5% for stress, strain, and stress intensity factors.
• Fatigue life prediction for Ti-6Al-4V ELI using the framework showed good agreement with experimental data (errors <10%).

Conclusions:

• The proposed sub-modeling method accurately transfers multi-scale mechanical responses.
• The framework enables effective localized refinement analysis for large structures.
• It is suitable for crystal plasticity simulations and fatigue life assessment.