Differential cubature method for static solutions of arbitrarily shaped thick plates (Q1286199)

The paper presents the differential cubature method as a global technique for fundamental solutions of arbitrarily shaped thick plates. The method is examined for its suitability for solving the boundary value problems for thick plates governing by the first-order shear deformation theory. Using the method, the governing differential equations and boundary conditions are transformed into sets of linear algebraic equations. Boundary conditions are implemented through discrete grid points by constraining displacements, bending moments and rotations. Detailed discussion on the formulation and implementation of the method is presented.