Finite Element Modeling Concepts in Multibody Dynamics

The paper describes a finite element formulation of flexible multibody systems. The discretized equations of motion are formulated using the augmented lagrangian approach and are solved in an implicit manner. Symbolic computation is utilized to develop the element models. Flexible members are treated in two ways: either in a fully nonlinear manner using a geometrically exact beam model, or through the substructuring concept. Two complex joint models are presented: a cam pair with double curvature and a flexible slider. Dry friction effects are taken into account using a regularization procedure.