Abstract
In finite element analyses of beam-like structures, finite elements based on the beam theory are efficient to represent overall behavior. On the other hand, it is necessary to use solid elements to resolve local behavior such as beam and column joints. In this work, we discuss numerical procedures to connect beam and solid elements.
In conventional procedures to connect beam and solid elements, continuity condition is considered for only displacements. In such procedures, over constraint is applied to solid elements on the interface between solid and beam elements and unreasonable deformation of solid elements near the interface may be observed.
In this work, we propose a numerical procedure based on the Nitsche's method, which allows us to consider continuity condition for both displacements and stress vectors. Then solid and beam elements can be connected with reasonable deformation and stress distribution.
