Flexural stability analysis of stiffened plates using the finite element method

A four-noded stiffened plate element has been developed which has all the advantages and efficiency of an isoparametric element to model arbitrary shaped plates, but without the disadvantage of the shear-locking problem inherent in the isoparametric element. Another unique feature is that the arbitrary placement of the stiffener inside the plate element is without any restriction of its orientation. The boundary conditions have been incorporated in a general manner so as to accommodate the curved as well as the straight-edged boundaries. The element has been used for stability analysis of arbitrary shaped stiffened plates.