Shape function using Cartesiancoordinates

Higher Order Triangular Elements

Higher order elements are useful if the boundary of the geometry is curve in nature. For curved case, higher order triangular element can be suited effectively while generating the finite element mesh. Moreover, in case of flexural action in the member, higher order elements can produce more accurate results compare to those using linear elements. Various types of higher order triangular elements are used in practice. However, most commonly used triangular element is the six node element for which development of shape functions are explained below.

Shape function for six node element