ABSTRACT
The efficient analysis of plate structures is of fundamental importance in structural engineering, and there is a vast literature on the problem. Analytical solutions are only possible for simple geometries and loadings (Timoshenko and Woinowsky-Krieger, 1959). Hence, the solution of practical plate problems requires a numerical approach, with finite elements being the most common method used. The development of accurate and efficient plate elements also has a long history, and many elements have been developed over the last fifty years (Zienkiewicz and Taylor, 2005).
