THE LINEAR ISOPARAMETRIC TRIANGULAR ELEMENT - THEORY AND APPLICATION

The aim of the present paper is to set forth, in a simple and consistent manner, the mechanical and computational features of the linear isoparametric triangular element. Emphasis is placed upon those mechanical attributes which are important in deriving finite element formulations. The linear isoparametric triangle is treated in a very direct manner. The kinematic features of the linear fields are identified. Homogeneous and higher order deformation modes are uncoupled by appropriate approximations of the stresses and strains. Consistent relations are obtained via the Hu-Washizu theorem. The resulting model is fully consistent with the Reissner continuum theory and is well suited for thick plates and shells. By means of discrete constraints the shear-deformable element is reduced to one which corresponds to the Kirchhoff-Love continuum theory.