Geometry-dependent MITC method for a 2-node iso-beam element

In this paper, we present an idea of the geometry-dependent MITC method. The simple concept is exemplified to improve a 2-node iso-beam (isoparametric beam) finite element of varying<br />section. We first study the behavior of a standard 2-node iso-beam finite element of prismatic section, which has been widely used with reduced integration (or the equivalent MITC method) in order to avoid<br />shear locking. Based on analytical studies on cantilever beams of varying section, we propose the axial strain correction (ASC) scheme and the geometry-dependent tying (GDT) scheme for the 2-node iso-beam<br />element. We numerically analyze varying section beam problems and present the improved performance by using both ASC and GDT schemes.