You use continuum shell elements to model shell-like solids with greater accuracy than conventional shell elements, as described in “Shell elements: overview,” Section 29.6.1 of the Abaqus Analysis User's Guide. In addition, although you model a continuum shell with hexahedral- or wedge-shaped elements, the element formulations are still more computationally efficient than solid continuum elements.

When you are generating elements that will be assigned to continuum shell elements, the elements in the mesh must be oriented consistently. For example, Figure 25–2 shows a swept mesh generated in the direction of the sweep path. The generated elements are stacked in the direction of the sweep path; however, if you plan to use continuum shell elements, the elements should be stacked through their thickness.

You can use the Query toolset to determine which faces are designated as the bottom face and the top face and to look for inconsistent orientations between elements. For more information, see “Obtaining general information about the model,” Section 71.2.2. In some cases, you can partition the model and change the direction of the sweep path to obtain the correct orientation. Alternatively, you can assign an orientation unrelated to the sweep path. For more information, see “Applying a mesh stack orientation,” Section 17.18.8.