Linked interpolation for Reissner‐Mindlin plate elements: Part II—A simple triangle

The formulation and shape functions given in Part I are extended to develop a simple plate bending triangle with good performance in both thin and thick situations. Indeed, its performance is better than that of other nine DOF elements and its computer implementation simpler. When used with selective reduced integration, the element produces identical results as that of Xu.1,2 To save space, details given in Part I are not repeated and some results are also presented in the figures of Part I.