Constrained torsional analysis of multi-cell composite tapered beams

摘要

The structural performance of multi-cell composite tapered beams when subjected to constrained torsional loading is examined in this paper. A simplified analytical procedure for determining the constrained torsional response of a specific class of multi-cell composite tapered beams is outlined in some detail. The constrained condition analyzed is that of the cantilevered multi-cell beam with torque applied at the free end of the beam. In order to avoid the elastic couplings in the beams between bending, torsion and axial effects, laminates are symmetrically layed-up about their own mid-planes in such a manner that they possess in-plane orthotropy. The analysis approach essentially makes use of the exist ing theories of torsion appropriate to isotropic constructions, which are suitably modified to account for the non-isotropic nature of composite material. The details of the finite element analysis are also included in the paper. The comparisons between the theory and finite element results are shown to give close agreement.