Redundant structure concepts in finite element analyses

The paper examines two triangular finite elements used in plate bending analyses for which Lagrange multiplier techniques have been used to set up the necessary equations for the solution. These equations involve either equilibrium of the system or the inter‐element compatibility. Starting from only the notions of equilibrium and continuity as used in the analyses of redundant structures, the paper proceeds to solutions of the same problems. It is found that end results are the same when the equations obtained from the minimization techniques are reduced by Gauss‐elimination in partitioned from.