Three‐node assumed strain Mindlin plate finite elements

Abstract

AbstractTwo new three‐node Mindlin plate finite elements are presented, both based on the two‐node Timoshenko beam element with problem‐dependent cubic linked interpolation. They are developed by generalising a constant shear strain expression of the Timoshenko beam element with rotational fields either derived in a way that makes the whole formulation kinematically consistent, or interpolated independently. Results from the numerical examples indicate robustness and high performance of the presented elements, with no shear locking, which makes them suitable for the analysis of very thin to thick plate cases. Furthermore, one of the presented elements passes the patch test for the constant bending state regardless of the element size. Ultimately, the presented elements are effective and suitable for practical application.