A remeshing strategy for three dimensional elasto-plasticity coupled with damage applicable to forming processes

Realistic simulations of forming processes require the ability to model complex three-dimensional geometries undergoing large deformations. As a result of the large deformations, finite elements may become excessively distorted and consequently unreliable from the numerical point of view. Remeshing must thus be used in order to keep the elements in a good shape. An important aspect of remeshing is transferring data from one mesh to another. Errors caused by this transfer can be minimised by selecting an appropriate methodology. In this study such a methodology is developed for a especial tetrahedral element which is free from locking and pressure oscillations. It is shown that by transferring a minimum and carefully selected set of variables and transferring them in a proper manner the simulation can be continued with minimum inconsistency and deviation.