Finite element method with curved membrane element for the analysis of membrane structure

The triangular finite element of constant stress is commonly used in the analysis of membrane structure. However, with the development of research and design skill of membrane structure, it is unable to meet the demand of accuracy. In this paper, a finite element method with six-node triangle curved surface element is presented, in which the effects of normal displacement and curvature change on strain can be considered. The essential formulas are derived on the basis of geometrically nonlinear finite element theory. Furthermore, the numerical example proves that the method given in this paper is correct and the numerical solutions are with high precision.