A robust triangular membrane element

Abstract

To analyze the plane problem with irregular mesh and complicated geometry, it is helpful to utilize the triangular element. In this study, several optimization criteria will be elaborated. By utilizing these provisions and satisfying the equilibrium conditions, a novel triangular element, named SST, is developed. To demonstrate the high accuracy and efficiency of the new element, a variety of structures will be solved. The findings will prove that the presented element has a low sensitivity to the geometric distortion. Moreover, the parasitic shear error will not arise when this element is employed. In addition to these, the proposed element is rotational invariant. Comparison studies will reveal that the SST element is more robust than the other well-known triangular ones.

Keywords

• Finite element
• optimal criteria
• geometric distortion
• triangular element
• plane problem
• parasitic shear