Buckling of laminated composite hypars and conoids using a higher-order theory

Abstract

A C0 finite element formulation using a higher-order shear deformation theory (HSDT) is developed and used to analyse the buckling behaviour of laminated hypar and conoids. Higher order terms in the Taylor's series expansion are used to represent the higher-order transverse cross-sectional deformation modes. The formulation includes Sanders' approximation for doubly curved shells considering the effect of transverse shear. A realistic parabolic distribution of transverse shear strains through the shell thickness is assumed and the use of shear correction factor is avoided. The accuracy of the formulation is validated by carrying out convergence study and comparing the results with those available in the literature. © 2010 The Institution of Engineers, Singapore.