Beam elements based on a higher order theory-I. Formulation and analysis of performance

Abstract

The flexure of deep beams, thick plates and shear flexible (e.g. laminated composite) beams and plates is often approached through a finite element formulation, based on the Lo-Christensen-Wu (LCW) theory. This paper is a systematic analytical evaluation of the use of the LCW higher order theory for finite element formulation. The accuracy and other features of the computational model are evaluated by comparing finite element method (FEM) results with available closed form classical and elasticity solutions. Wherever possible, errors are predicted by an a priori analysis using these solutions and concepts from an understanding of what the finite element method does.