The Finite Patch Method: a nodal equation method based on FEM
The recently developed (Finite) Patch Method is introduced. In these equations for a patch of finite elements are rearranged to obtain a patch matrix E. This provides equations for corner, edge and interior nodes of a domain, which are then solved by relaxation. The method is similar to the classical FDM except that FEM is used to form equations and thus equations for boundary nodes are automatically included. The method is applied to potential and plane stress problems and problems including line elements and irregular boundaries.
patch method patch matrix plane stress finite difference method finite element method potential problems rectangular basis triangular basis