On a simple triangular reissner/mindlin plate element based on incompatible modes and discrete constraints

In this paper the formulation of a new triangular element based on the Reissner/Mindlin plate theory is presented. The element has three nodes and three d.o.f. per node only. It is based on constant bending modes plus incompatible energy orthogonal higher order bending modes. The transverse shear effects are represented using the moment equilibrium and the constitutive equations. Discrete (collocation) shear constraints are considered on each side to relate the kinematical and the independent shear strains. The element has a proper rank, is completely locking free, passes all constant patch‐tests exactly. The detailed numerical evaluation shows that the element, called DST‐BK, is a robust and high‐performance element for thick and thin plates.