Interface element method and its application

Without any additional element, noncontinuous deformation of body can be simulated efficiently by interface element. The element stiffness matrix and interface stress are derived, which is based on the principle of virtual work. The steps given in the theoretical development were implemented in the computer program. A homogeneous cantilever beam and a composite structure were taken for examples to check the program. The comparisons between the numerical and theoretical results, and between numerical and measured results show that it is accurate and feasible for interface element method to solve the mechanical problem of the continuous and noncontinuous medium.