FEM and Theoretical Analysis of Equivalent Stiffnesses of Trapezoidal Corrugated Composites in Different Direction of Corrugation

FEM models were used and solved to predict the characteristics of the corrugated composites by commercial FEM software ABAQUS. The elongation and equivalent tensional and bending stiffnesses in longitudinal and transverse directions of trapezoidal corrugated structures and flat composite panels are calculated and compared together. Using strain energy principles and Castiglione’s theorem derived equivalent tensile elastic stiffness and bending stiffness in longitudinal and transverse direction of corrugation. In this research, the geometrical parameters (amplitude, step and …) of trapezoidal composite structures are investigated. FEM results and analytical model are compared together.

Keywords:

composite structure , equivalent stiffness , finite element , Castiglione’s theorem , trapezoidal geometry