Simon R. Eugster

The application of the Petrov–Galerkin projection method in Cosserat rod finite element formulations offers significant advantages in simplifying the expressions within the discrete virtual work functionals. Moreover, it enables a straight‐forward and systematic exchange of the ansatz functions, specifically for centerline positions and cross‐section orientations. In this concise communication, we present a total Lagrangian finite element formulation for Cosserat rods that attempts to minimize the number of required theoretical concepts. The chosen discretization preserves objectivity and allows for large displacements/rotations and for large strains. The orientation parametrization with nonunit quaternions results in a singularity‐free formulation.

In this paper, we represent second-gradient internal work functionals in Lagrangian (referential) and Eulerian (spatial) descriptions, and we deduce the corresponding expressions for the Piola transformations of stress and double-stress tensors and of external forces and double-forces. We also derive, in both the Eulerian and Lagrangian description, the expression of surface and edge contact interactions (which include forces and double-forces) for second-gradient continua in terms of the normal and the curvature of contact boundary surfaces and edge shapes.