Composite beam element

Abstract

Beams are autonomous or secondary load bearing members of many structures. They are used extensively in the formation of linkages, shafts and frames and as reinforcements on plate and shell panels. They are also used in robotics and high speed machinery. Laminated composite beams are integral parts of lightweight structures that require high strength over weight ratios. In general, laminated beams have been studied to a lesser degree than laminated plates and shells. This may not come as a surprise considering the fact that some aspects of the theory of beams are more intricate than aspects of plate and shell theory. For example, the geometrical stiffness of a shell element, required for buckling and large deflection analyses, is sufficiently developed using membrane stresses. However, for beam elements other forces or moments may contribute to the geometrical stiffness, albeit not significantly. In the latter case, the geometrical stiffness is more difficult to derive than for plate and shell elements.