Refined 18-DOF triangular hybrid stress element for couple stress theory

Based on the couple stress theory and the hybrid stress element method proposed by Pian, a refined 18-DOF triangular hybrid stress element is established. The 15 beta Airy stress functions which satisfy the equilibrium equation in the domain of the element are chosen as the assumed stress interpolation functions, and boundary displacement interpolation functions are chosen as beam function. The characteristics of this element are possessing second-order accuracy and C-0 and C-1 continuity in the weak form, satisfying convergence condition for the enhanced patch test and does not exhibits extra zero energy modes. Moreover, a refined assumed stress element method is developed to improve the element accuracy. Numerical examples presented show that the proposed model indeed possesses higher accuracy and can pass the enhanced patch test, and can capture the scale effects of microstructure. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.