Use of an approximate fundamental solution for a half plane with an edge crack in a combined method of weight functions.

A new version of the engineering method of weight functions that combines the advantages of the existing versions is suggested. It is based on finding the dependence of the opening of the crack lips on the concentrated force applied at an arbitrary point of the crack lips and makes essential use of an approximate fundamental solution for a half plane with an edge crack in a combined method of weight functions. The high accuracy and simplicity of the method are illustrated by several examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]