Pc. Tse et al., LARGE DEFLECTION OF ELASTIC COMPOSITE CIRCULAR SPRINGS UNDER UNIAXIALCOMPRESSION, International journal of non-linear mechanics, 29(5), 1994, pp. 781-798
The equivalent flexural rigidity approach for large deflection analysi
s has been applied to orthotropic midplane symmetric laminated circula
r rings under uniaxial compression. The analytical approach incorporat
es the exact expression of the moment-curvature relationship for the b
ending of symmetric laminated beams. Non-linear spring behaviour is ob
tained and verified by experimental testings. The circumferential stra
in distributions around the rings are compared with that obtained by a
small deflection strain energy approach and found to provide a more a
ccurate prediction, especially at high loads where the deflection is l
arge. Finite element calculations performed with some of the ring mode
ls show good correlation with both analytical and experimental results
and the distribution of circumferential strains at increased external
load is illustrated.