The GDC method as an orthogonal arc‐length method

The method of generalized displacements (GDC) is a path-following algorithm for non-linear mechanics, capable to overcome both limit and snap-back points. It was proposed as a consistent alternative to most existing techniques, such as the arc-length family of algorithms. Although it is a reliable algorithm, it has not been as widely used as the arc-length methods, possibly because it has been seen as belonging to a different category. This paper shows that the GDC method can be seen as an orthogonal arc-length method, with an interesting constraint equation which leads to its appealing features. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.