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Abstract: The problem of finding the least change adjustment to a stiffness matrix modeled by finite element method is considered in this paper. Desired stiffness matrix properties such as symmetry, sparsity, positive semidefiniteness, and satisfaction of the characteristic equation are imposed as side constraints of the constructed optimal matrix approximation for updating the stiffness matrix, which matches measured data better. The dual problems of the original constrained minimization are presented and solved by subgradient algorithms with different line search strategies. Some numerical results are included to illustrate the performance and application of the proposed methods. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this paper we present stabilized finite element methods to discretize in space the monochromatic radiation transport equation. These methods are based on the decomposition of the unknowns into resolvable and subgrid scales, with an approximation for the latter that yields a problem to be solved for the former. This approach allows us to design the algorithmic parameters on which the method depends, which we do here when the discrete ordinates method is used for the directional approximation. We concentrate on two stabilized methods, namely, the classical SUPG technique and the orthogonal subscale stabilization. A numerical analysis of the spatial approximation for both formulations is performed, which shows that they have a similar behavior: they are both stable and optimally convergent in the same mesh-dependent norm. A comparison with the behavior of the Galerkin method, for which a non-standard numerical analysis is done, is also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper presents an inelastic element for the analysis of beams resting on two-parameter foundations. The element is derived from a two field mixed formulation with independent approximation of forces and displacements. The values for the two parameters of the foundation are derived through an iterative technique that is based on an assumption of plane strain for the soil medium. This iterative behavior is repeated at each time step of the nonlinear solution algorithm. The nonlinear response of structures resting on this improved two-parameter foundation model is analyzed following both a Vlasov and a Pasternak approach. Numerical examples that clarify the advantage of the newly developed model are conducted. These studies confirmed the importance of accounting for the foundation second parameter, and the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed model. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents a simple procedure for obtaining a numerical approximation to the consistent tangent matrix, together with a straightforward implicit (Euler backward) integration algorithm. The combined algorithm is used to incorporate four models into the commercial finite element package ABAQUS/Standard; illustrating how it can be used to rapidly implement material models within finite element analysis. The models have been chosen, not only because they help to illuminate the structure of the algorithm, but also because they illustrate its wide ranging applicability and permit the procedure to be tested against analytical results and an existing, well established, model. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]