The mode‐decomposition, C° formulation of curved, two‐dimensional structural elements

Based on purely kinematical considerations the possibility of inextensional bending is introduced to isoparametric curved C° elements, which, otherwise, are plagued by severe membrane (and shear) locking. The analysis is restricted to arches and axisymmetric deformations of shells, i.e. kinematically two‐dimensional problems. The results show exceptionally good accuracy. High reliability of the approach is guaranteed by absence of spurious kinematic modes on the element level, which complements its ability to bend inextensionally (in the case of arches).