Applied element method

The Applied Element Method (AEM) is a numerical analysis used in predicting the continuum and discrete behavior of structures. The modeling method in AEM adopts the concept of discrete cracking allowing it to automatically track structural collapse behavior passing through all stages of loading: elastic, crack initiation and propagation in tension-weak materials, reinforcement yield, element separation, element contact and collision, as well as collision with the ground and adjacent structures.

Exploration of the approach employed in the applied element method began in 1995 at the University of Tokyo as part of Dr.Hatem Tagel-Din's research studies. The term itself "Applied Element Method," however was first coined in 2000 in a paper called "Applied element method for structural analysis: Theory and application for linear Materials.". Since then AEM has been the subject of research by a number of academic institutions and the driving factor in real-world applications. Research has verified its accuracy for: elastic analysis; crack initiation and propagation; estimation of failure loads at reinforced concrete structures;reinforced concrete structures under cyclic loading;buckling and post-buckling behavior; nonlinear dynamic analysis of structures subjected to severe earthquakes; fault-rupture propagation; nonlinear behavior of brick structures; and the analysis of glass reinforced polymers (GFRP) walls under blast loads.

In AEM, the structure is divided virtually and modeled as an assemblage of relatively small elements. The elements are then connected through a set of normal and shear springs located at contact points distributed along the element faces. Normal and shear springs are responsible for the transfer of normal and shear stresses from one element to the next.

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