Temporal Operators for Nonlinear Structural Dynamics Problems

Three of the most often used numerical integration schemes for the geometrically nonlinear response analysis of structural components are evaluated based on the ease of problem formulation, machine strage required, and speed and accuracy of solution. The particular integration methods considered are the implicit Houbolt and constant-average-acceleration Newmark methods and the explicit central finite difference scheme. The methods are evaluated by a series of numerical experiments with one and multiple degree-of-freedom system, both with and without damping, with emphasis on the characteristics of these temporal operators as regards stability and artificial attenuation or viscosity.