On stabilization of the node-based smoothed finite element method for free vibration problems

Abstract

The node-based smoothed finite element method (NS-FEM) has been recently proposed by Liu et al to enhance the computational effect for solid mechanics problems. However, it is evident that the NS-FEM behaves "overly-soft" and so it may lead to instability for dynamic problems. The instability can be clearly shown as spurious non-zero energy modes in free vibration analysis. In this paper, we present a stabilization of the node-based smoothed finite element method (SN-FEM) that is stable (no spurious non-zero energy modes) and more effective than the standard finite element method (FEM). Three numerical illustrations are given to evince the high reliability of the proposed formulation.