Assessment of the accuracy of homogenization in finite element analysis of grid plates under transverse loads

Abstract

Purpose — The purpose of this paper is to assess the accuracy of homogenization or the smeared stiffness approach in analyzing quadrigrid plates under transverse loads is assessed by comparing two distinct finite element solutions. The grid is assumed to be made of homogeneous isotropic material. However, the numerical solution procedure adopted here is applicable to grids made of unidirectional composite ribs. Design/methodology/approach — The finite element structural analysis is conducted by using plate elements based on the first‐order shear deformable theory (FSDT) and grillage analysis using first‐order shear deformable beam elements. The grillage analysis results, which are taken as the exact results, are compared with the approximate results obtained using FSDT plate elements, where the stiffness matrices obtained by the smeared stiffness approach are incorporated in the plate finite element formulation. Several sample problems are solved and the influences of rib spacing, rib thickness‐to‐width ratio, plate dimensions, and loading are examined. Findings — The results presented here show that homogenization yields reliable results when certain conditions are satisfied. Originality/value — The paper demonstrates that it is necessity to conduct thorough and systematic research studies revealing the accuracy of these models, as the applicability limits of homogenization are not clearly known.

Citation

Cagdas, I.U. (2010), "Assessment of the accuracy of homogenization in finite element analysis of grid plates under transverse loads", Engineering Computations, Vol. 27 No. 6, pp. 676-693. https://doi.org/10.1108/02644401011062081