PLATE BENDING ELEMENTS WITH DISCRETE CONSTRAINTS - NEW TRIANGULAR ELEMENTS

In recent years a series of elements based on Reissner-Mindlin assumptions and using discrete (collocation type) constraints has been introduced. These elements have proved to be very effective, however their relation to straightforward mixed approximations has not been clear. In this paper this relationship is discussed and the reasons for their success explained. This allows new and effective triangular elements to be developed. The presentation shows the close relationships with the DKT (Discrete Kirchhoff Theory) element previously available only for thin plates and allows extension of their applications. © 1990.