A solid-shell transition element for geometrically non-linear analysis of laminated composite structures

Using the incremental equations of motion of a continuous medium and the total Lagrangian description, three different elements, i.e. degenerated shell element, 3‐D continuum element and solid‐shell transition element, are developed for the geometrically non‐linear analysis of laminated composite structures. Compatibility and completeness requirements are stressed in modelling shell‐type structures in order to assure the convergence of the finite element analysis. A number of laminated plate and shell examples are presented to demonstrate the validity and efficiency of various elements.