Error estimation for the computation of force using the virtual work method on finite element models

In most finite element analysis, the numerical error range of the computed force must be specified. In this paper, an error estimation method for force computation using the virtual work method is presented. The merits of the proposed method include its simplicity and its applicability in force computation when the objects being studied are touching other objects. Index Terms--Error estimation, finite element method (FEM), force, magnetic field.