Averaging of results in FE nodes

The program calculates result values in the nodes of individual finite elements. If required, these results can be further processed to obtain "better" displayed values.

The user may select from the following options (the options are demonstrated on a slab composed of two halves of different thickness with one half subjected to a uniformly distributed load and the other half without any loading):

In centres

The values in centres (centres of gravity) are calculated as an arithmetic average of nodal values of the finite element. The result is a single value for one finite element.

image\2DResultsCentres.gif

 

In nodes, no averaging

These are values provided by the solver. The results are kept pure without any processing.

image\2DResultsNoAver.gif

 

In nodes, averaging

Nodal values from adjacent finite elements are averaged in every node. The result is a single value for each node and the distribution becomes continuous.

Moreover, extrapolation of values is carried out on free edges (the values on the free edge are so modified so that the average value in the element was preserved).

image\2DResultsAver.gif

 

In nodes, averaging on macro

This is similar to the option above, but the values are not averaged if:

  • elements belong to a different 2D member,

  • elements are located on different sides of an internal edge,

  • an internal point is defined.

 

For these situations, the distribution is non-continuous and a possible discontinuity (step-change) in the distribution of internal is taken into account, which may a result of applied loads, supports, changes of physical properties.

image\2DResultsAverMacro.gif

 

Note: The averaging may not be available for every result quantity. Only some results may be subject to this type of "postprocessing".