Another important item is to consider how the finite element output data would be used to confirm compliance with acceptance criteria. For example, using stress output data from plate or shell element s to a reinforced concrete slab is not very practical. Some computer codes employ a yield criterion for plate and shell elements based on stress resultants (forces and moments), which is much more convenient for structural design purposes. Another difficulty arises when trying to determine relative displacements of a member in order to check its maximum deflection against the allowable deflection.
yield