Shape Functions
Section 3 · Basis functions for FE interpolation
Element Type
Select Node
Display
Metrics
3
Nodes
1
Order
6
DOF
Shape Function Equations
\(N_1 = 1 - \xi - \eta\)
\(N_2 = \xi\)
\(N_3 = \eta\)
\(N_2 = \xi\)
\(N_3 = \eta\)
Concept
Shape functions (or basis functions) interpolate nodal values within an element. Each function equals 1 at its node and 0 at all other nodes.
The partition of unity property ensures: \(\sum_i N_i(\xi,\eta) = 1\) at every point.
Legend
N₁
N₂
N₃