Finite Element Analysis of Bending-Extensional Coupling in Laminated Composites

摘要

The designer of asymmetric laminates which are subjected primarily to transverse loads is interested in the effects of bending-extensional coupling on the overall response of the composite. Because of the many variables to consider, a variety of parametric investigations are necessary to ascertain the effects of coupling. For example, the reduction of effective laminate stiffness due to coupling may depend on the modular ratio (E(11)/E(12)) and orientation of the individual as well as on the type of loading and support conditions. The purpose of the paper is to present numerical results of a finite element analysis and to present additional results which will further define the effects of coupling on gross laminate behavior. Although the results presented herein are only for the elastostatic deformation behavior, the finite element analysis can conveniently be extended for the solution of a larger class of problems and a complete description of the coupling phenomena can be obtained. (Author)