Basis of finite element methods for solid continua

Abstract

Abstract Finite element methods can be formulated from the variational principles in solid mechanics by relaxing the continuity requirements along the interelement boundaries. The combination of different variational principles and different boundary continuity conditions yields numerous types of approximate methods. This paper reviews and reinterprets the existing finite element methods and indicates other alternative schemes. Plate bending problems are used to compare the relative merits of the various methods.