Modelling inclusions, holes and fibre reinforced composites using the local multi-grid finite element method

This paper examines the application of the local multi-grid finite element method to model both a single inclusion in an infinite plate and unidirectional laminae consisting of square and hexagonal packed arrays. of fibres. Single and arrays of holes are modelled by assigning a negligible inclusion/fibre modulus of elasticity. The paper demonstrates that the local multi-grid method provides a convenient and accurate method for modelling single and arrays of inclusions compared to conventional structured and unstructured finite element models. Convenient in that local inclusion/fibre 'primitive' patches greatly assist in generating meshes consisting of arrays of fibres, and accurate in that structured base and patch meshes can, be used, even though interpolation is used between levels. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.