An assumed stress hybrid curvilinear triangular finite element for plate bending

An assumed stress hybrid curvilinear triangular finite element is described which is based upon the Kirchhoff theory of plate bending. The derivation extends the assumed stress hybrid technique to curvilinear boundaries where the twelve connectors are related to those of an equilibrium rectilinear element and to Semiloof. The solution process demands only first derivatives of the shape functions. The element is subjected to various patch tests for constant bending, e.g. where the central element is in close approximation to a circle. All tests are passed for stress couples and vertex displacements, but values of the remaining connectors do not resemble exact results. Patch tests for rigid-body movements are passed exactly in every respect.