Automated mesh generation for tubular joint stress analysis

Abstract A technique for automatically generating finite-element meshes to be used in stress analysis of tubular intersections is described. The strengths and limitations of earlier analytical attempts are discussed. The efforts of the authors to extend a somewhat limited existing scheme for mesh generation are treated in detail. The new capabilities made possible by the coupling of the mesh generator with a general-purpose analysis program are explored. The paper closes by considering several applications of the technique along with its possible impact on tubular joint design practice.