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Nonlinear model reduction for large-scale structures via dual substructuring
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  • Published: 16 February 2026

Nonlinear model reduction for large-scale structures via dual substructuring

  • Pedro A. Flores1 

Scientific Reports , Article number:  (2026) Cite this article

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We are providing an unedited version of this manuscript to give early access to its findings. Before final publication, the manuscript will undergo further editing. Please note there may be errors present which affect the content, and all legal disclaimers apply.

Subjects

  • Engineering
  • Mathematics and computing
  • Physics

Abstract

This work presents a nonlinear model reduction strategy for large-scale structural systems with localized nonlinearities based on a dual substructuring approach. The method combines the computational benefits of the dual Craig-Bampton formulation with the accuracy of nonlinear normal modes (NNMs) embedded within each substructure dynamic reduction. Internal nonlinearities are treated locally via invariant manifold-based approximations, while interface compatibility is enforced through interface forces, maintaining the modularity and flexibility of the dual formulation. The performance of the proposed method is assessed on a steel frame with localized nonlinearities subjected to harmonic loading. The results obtained with the proposed formulation were compared with those of the full finite element model. In both analyses, the Hilber–Hughes–Taylor (HHT) algorithm was employed as the time integration strategy. The reduced models achieve significant reductions in computational cost while preserving high accuracy in the predicted transient response. The approach demonstrates strong potential for efficient nonlinear dynamic simulation of complex engineering structures with localized nonlinearities.

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Data availability

The datasets generated during and/or analysed during the current study are not publicly available at the time of publication due to confidentiality reasons, but are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Applied Mechanics, Machines and Mechanisms Group, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, 15088, Lima, Peru

    Pedro A. Flores

Authors
  1. Pedro A. Flores
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Contributions

Study conception, design, material preparation, data collection and analysis were performed by Pedro A. Flores. The first draft of the manuscript was written by Pedro A. Flores.

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Pedro A. Flores.

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The authors declare no competing interests.

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Flores, P.A. Nonlinear model reduction for large-scale structures via dual substructuring. Sci Rep (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-38015-7

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  • Received: 14 September 2025

  • Accepted: 28 January 2026

  • Published: 16 February 2026

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-38015-7

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Keywords

  • Nonlinear normal modes
  • Model order reduction
  • Substructuring
  • Nonlinear finite element modelling
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