Thermal/structural dynamic analysis via a transform-method-based finite-element approach

The paper describes a generalized transform-method-based finite-element methodology for interfacing interdisciplinary areas, with emphasis on thermal/structural dynamic applications. The purpose of the paper is to present an alternate approach for interdisciplinary analysis via a common numerical methodology for each interdisciplinary area, and therein outline the potential of the proposed formulations. Characteristic features of the methodology and fundamental concepts are highlighted for the interdisciplinary areas of heat transfer and structural dynamics. Details of a Laplace-transform-based finite-element interface methodology are described and applied to discrete-type flexural configurations subjected to rapid surface heating. Results obtained demonstrate excellent agreement in comparison with analytic solutions and/or conventional finite-element formulations. The methodology offers potential for thermostructural applications, and the concepts outlined, it is hoped, will provide avenues to interface other interdisciplinary areas as well.