| Abstract: | Equilibrium constraints are used to improve the stress accuracy of existing assumed natural-co-ordinate strain (ANS) plate elements. This is accomplished by introducing hierarchical degrees of freedom, which are subsequently eliminated by invoking kinematic consistency and element-interior homogeneous equilibrium conditions. The resulting element enrichments are completely contained in the strain-displacement matrix. In addition, the modified displacement shape functions become available for consistent mass and nodal load calculations, a feat not shared by some hybrid-type elements. The performance of the present element (ANS-EC) is compared with other plate bending elements. This performance comparison includes convergence studies for both displacements and stresses. |
