An improved theory and finite-element model for laminated composite and sandwich beams using first-order zig-zag sublaminate approximations

摘要

A new beam finite clement based on a new discrete-layer laminated beam theory with sublaminate first-order zig-zag kinematic assumptions is presented and assessed for thick and thin laminated beams. The model allows a laminate to be represented as an assemblage of sublaminates in order to increase the model refinement through tile thickness, when needed. Within each sublaminate, discrete-laver effects arc accounted for via a modified form of DiSciuva's linear zig-zag laminate kinematics, in which continuity of interfacial transverse shear stresses is satisfied identically. In the computational model, each finite element represents one sublaminate.