An explicit finite difference approach for the Mindlin plate analysis

Abstract

An explicit finite difference method for the analysis of plates subjected to dynamic loads is presented. The theoretical approach is based on the Mindlin plate theory which includes the effects of shear deformation and rotatory inertia. Such a tool will enable the analyst to study plate vibration when higher response modes are to be considered. A stability criterion for the numerical approach is given, the method is then illustrated by an example, and a comparison to the classical plate theory is presented.