The finite element method since its development in the 1950's has been used extensively in solving complex problems involving partial differential equations. The conventional finite element methods use piecewise Lagrange interpolation functions for approximating displacements. The aim of this research is to explore finite element analysis using B-spline interpolation. B-splines are piecewise defined polynomial curves which provide higher continuity of derivatives than piecewise Lagrange interpolation functions. This work focuses on the implementation and comparison of the B-spline finite elements in contrast with the conventional finite elements. This thesis observes that the use of B-spline interpolation functions can reduce the computational cost significantly. It is an efficient technique and can be conveniently implemented into the existing finite element programs.

An exploration of the new weighted approximation techniques which result from the combination of the finite element method and B-splines.

A computer program is presented for the small strain analysis of plane structures in the strain hardening elastic-plastic range. The finite element displacement method is used to perform the linear analyses in the iterative scheme. Bar and constant strain isotropic plane stress triangles are available for use in constructing structural idealizations. The use of ten different sets of material properties, three different material laws, and incremental proportional loading are available as options. Good correlation is shown with available test data and theoretical solutions.