The GDC method as an orthogonal arc‐length method

Abstract 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.