A Finite Element Analysis based on Higher-Order Zig-Zag Shell Theory for Laminated Composites with Multiple Delamination

다중 층간 분리부가 내재된 복합재 쉘 고차 지그재그 모델의 유한요소 해석

A new three-node triangular shell element based on higher order zig-zag theory is developed for laminated composite shells with multiple delaminations. The present higher order zig-zag shell theory is described in a general curvilinear coordinate system and in general tensor notation. All the complicated curvatures of surface including twisting curvatures can be described in an exact manner in the present shell element because this element is based on geometrically exact surface representation. The displacement field of the proposed finite element includes slope of deflection. which requires continuity between element interfaces. Thus the nonconforming shape function of Specht's three-node triangular plate bending element is employed to interpolate out-of-plane displacement. The present element passes the bending and twisting patch tests in flat surface configurations. The developed element is evaluated through the buckling problems of composite cylindrical shells with multiple delaminations. Through the numerical examples it is demonstrated that the proposed shell element is efficient because it has minimal degrees of freedom per node. The accuracy of the present element is demonstrated in the prediction of buckling loads and buckling modes of shells with multiple delaminations. The present shell element should serve as a powerful tool in the prediction of buckling loads and modes of multi-layered thick laminated shell structures with arbitrary-shaped multiple delaminations.