Approximate matrix equations for plate finite elements

Abstract

The approximate solution procedures for plates given in Chapter 7 can be applied to plate finite elements. The procedure is to construct approximate stiffness, flexibility, and mixed matrices for the elements and then assemble the element matrices for the entire structure. This procedure was used in Chapters 3 and 4 of Volume 1 for simple bar and beam structures. This chapter will be concerned with using the matrix forms of the virtual principles given in Chapter 7 to derive the general matrix equations for plate finite elements. Examples for a simple right triangular element with constant stresses will be used to demonstrate the forms of the various matrices. The details for specific types of finite elements will be given in Chapter 9.