DEVELOPMENT OF SIMPLE, ROBUST FINITE-ELEMENTS BASED ON REFINED THEORIES FOR THICK LAMINATED BEAMS

An approach for developing accurate, simple and robust two-noded C-0 f inite elements based on shear deformable and layerwise (zig-zag) lamin ated beam theories is presented. First, a new generalized form of high -order shear deformation and zig-zag laminate theories is described th at allows the continuity requirement on the transverse deflection degr ee freedom to be reduced. An associated finite element model is then d eveloped that employs the penalty function concept in conjunction with an interdependent element interpolation scheme, making the element ve ry accurate and robust for application to thick and thin laminated bea ms. The element stiffness coefficients are exactly integrated without giving rise to shear locking, and a consistent force vector is derived . Comparison of numerical results using the refined laminate models wi th exact elasticity solutions demonstrates that the current model is c apable of accurately simulating the response of thin and moderately th ick laminates, with or without damage.