Ritz method analysis of rectilinear orthotropic composite circular plates undergoing in-plane bending and torsional moments

Abstract

In this article, the elastic problem of composite circular plates with rectilinear orthotropic characteristics, in case of in-plane bending and torsional moments applied, is resolved. According to classical lamination plate theory, the analysis makes use of the Ritz method along with the principle of virtual displacements, originally combined in order to obtain displacements components. The procedure represents an important step for the setting-up of a spot joint element able to simulate in FE analyses the structural behavior of point junctions applied to composite components. The accuracy of the procedure has been demonstrated comparing analytical results to FE reference analyses.