A geometrically nonlinear finite element analysis of wrinkled membrane surfaces by a no‐compression material model

A total Lagrangian formulation and a continuum approach are used in a geometrically nonlinear finite element analysis of wrinkled regions in membranes. The analysis makes use of a no‐compression material model together with large out‐of‐plane displacements of the elements to simulate a problem which is in fact due to the lack of flexural stiffness. This model simulates the stress state in surface areas with distributed wrinkles better than a model where the tendency of the membrane to avoid compressive stresses is simulated only by large out‐of‐plane displacements of the elements. A distinction between single folds and wrinkled regions is introduced.