Note on Rectangular Plate Analysis

This note was written to assist postgraduate (Master degree and Doctoral degree levels) to acquire in-depth knowledge of rectangular plate analysis. A simple approach to lecture was adopted. The note seems more like lesson note than lecture note. This simple approach was used to carry the student along on step to step basis of formulations, derivations and numerical problem solving. Most books on plate analysis lacked this simple approach, which has mystified the analysis of plates. The lecturer was compelled to compile this lecture note such that the student does not necessarily need to be in the class to understand rectangular plate analysis. What the student needs to understand rectangular plate analysis from this note is just the knowledge of basic/ foundation courses like pure mathematics, statics (structural mechanics) and strength of materials. The note is self-explanatory, and step-wise illustrative examples were performed. This will enable the reader to master the basic steps involved in rectangular plate analysis. Small deflection theory of plate is the main concern of this note. The note did not go into large deflection theory and post-buckling analysis.