Embedded unit cell homogenization model for localized non-periodic elasto-plastic zones (Q2667334)

The authors discuss a numerical method for cost-effective evaluation of the non-linear mechanical response of a structure with inhomogeneous microstructure. The formulation consists of a theoretical derivation and the development of special boundary conditions representing the variations of the local displacement field across the unit cell boundaries. A standard FEM is used away from the localization zones to obtain a mechanical response without the need for mesh refinement. Regions that consist of a geometrical or material inhomogeneity are considered separately in a concurrent multi-scale procedure.