Rectangular $C^1$-$Q_k$ Bell finite elements in two and three dimensions

Abstract

Both the function and its normal derivative on the element boundary are $Q_k$ polynomials for the Bogner-Fox-Schmit $C^1$-$Q_k$ finite element functions. Mathematically, to keep the optimal order of approximation, their spaces are required to include $P_k$ and $P_{k-1}$ polynomials respectively. We construct a Bell type $C^1$-$Q_k$ finite element on rectangular meshes in 2D and 3D, which has its normal derivative as a $Q_{k-1}$ polynomial on each face, for $k\ge 4$. We show, with a big reduction of the space, the $C^1$-$Q_k$ Bell finite element retains the optimal order of convergence. Numerical experiments are performed, comparing the new elements with the original elements.