Definition of various terms of a Shell Element
Definition of various terms of a Shell Element
(OP)
Hi Folks,
I was trying to get a better understanding of definition of various shell/plate element terms (Z1, Z2, Top, Bottom, Face 1, Face 2). I did a simple case study of a cantilever plate subjected to transverse load. Basically put the plate in bending. Did the case study in two FEA packages: MSC Patran & Femap. Based on the output and verifying via the software, I was able to get some clarity on the definition of the above terms with respect to Shell Element Normal Vector. I have created an illustration of the same. Would love to hear feedback from other users on its accuracy.

Regards,
- VN
I was trying to get a better understanding of definition of various shell/plate element terms (Z1, Z2, Top, Bottom, Face 1, Face 2). I did a simple case study of a cantilever plate subjected to transverse load. Basically put the plate in bending. Did the case study in two FEA packages: MSC Patran & Femap. Based on the output and verifying via the software, I was able to get some clarity on the definition of the above terms with respect to Shell Element Normal Vector. I have created an illustration of the same. Would love to hear feedback from other users on its accuracy.

Regards,
- VN





RE: Definition of various terms of a Shell Element
Remark 11 in the nastran quick reference guide under PSHELL essentially tells you the definition of Z1 & Z2. See below
RE: Definition of various terms of a Shell Element
As you know, one of the faces will be in tension and the other in compression. This way you can compare any software packages' top/bottom/face1/face2/Z1/Z2 & etc. definitions, no matter what the software is. Should take you 5 minutes to find out..
Spaceship!!
Aerospace Engineer, M.Sc. / Aircraft Stress Engineer
RE: Definition of various terms of a Shell Element
RE: Definition of various terms of a Shell Element
Thats how I got a better understanding of definition of various terms. Checked the stress signs on two different FEA packages.