Implementation of a C1 Triangular Element Based on the p-Version of the Finite Element Method

摘要

The implementation of a computer code CONE (for C(1) continuity) based on the p-version of the finite element method is described. A hierarchic family of triangular finite elements of degree p > or = 5 is used. This family enforces C(1) continuity across inter-element boundaries, and the code is applicable to fourth order partial differential equations in two independent variables, in particular to the biharmonic equation. Applications to several benchmark problems in plate bending are presented. Sample results are examined and compared both with theoretical predictions and with the computations of other programs. Significant improvements are shown for the results obtained using CONE.