Finite-rotation shell elements via mixed formulation (Q1207280)

Starting from a tensorial five-parametric finite-rotation shell theory, a family of mixed finite elements is developed on the basis of a Reissner- Mindlin type functional. The family developed contains four-node and nine-node quadrilateral shell elements. In each of them the displacement approximation is combined with various force variable interpolations in order to improve flexibility for numerical applications. The so-called difference vector occurring in the shell theory is expressed in terms of new rotational degrees of freedom which permit a unique determination of this variable in every deformed position. The corresponding constraints are then satisfied at the element level numerically.