A simple limit analysis procedure for reinforced concrete slabs using rigid finite elements

It has previously been proposed that the yield-line method of analysis for reinforced concrete slabs could be automated via the use of rigid finite elements, assuming all deformations occur along element edges. However, the solutions obtained using this approach can be observed to be highly sensitive to mesh topology. To address this, a revised formulation that incorporates modified yield criteria to account for the presence of non-zero shear forces at interfaces between elements is proposed. The resulting formulation remains simple, with linear programming (LP) still used to obtain solutions for problems involving Johansen's square yield criteria. The results obtained are shown to agree well with literature solutions for various slab problems involving uniform loading and a range of geometries and boundary conditions.