Guidelines for selecting finite element grids based on an optimization study

The requirements for optimum finite element grids are presented and discussed. The work focuses on the introduction of nodal co-ordinates as independant unknowns, in addition to nodal displacements which have characterized the method in the past. A study is made of optimum grids in two dimensional plane stress problems from which specific guidelines are suggested such that near optimum grids can be selected by the analyst. These grids lead to improved stresses and displacements.