Unified approach to the characterization of coupled composite laminates: Hygro‐thermally curvature‐stable configurations

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate new design concepts for 24 classes of laminate, which have been derived as part of an ongoing study on the development of a unified approach to the characterization of coupled laminates. The paper presents a description of each class of coupled laminate.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper gives an overview of the desired performance and requirements of a smart leading edge device, its aerodynamic design for the wind tunnel tests and the structural pre‐design and sizing of the full‐scale leading edge section which will be tested in the wind tunnel.

Findings

Coupled laminates have potential applications in the design of aero‐elastic compliant rotor blades or aircraft wing structures, by introducing tailored extension‐twist and/or shear‐extension coupling at the laminate level; or in the design of thermally activated morphing structures, by exploiting more complex coupling behaviour.

Practical implications

These laminates contain standard cross‐ply and/or angle‐ply combinations, although double angle‐ply laminates are also considered, and correspond to any standard fibre/matrix system with a constant ply thickness throughout.

Originality/value

The vast majority of the laminate described possess coupling behaviour not previously identified in the literature.

Citation

York, C. (2011), "Unified approach to the characterization of coupled composite laminates: Hygro‐thermally curvature‐stable configurations", International Journal of Structural Integrity, Vol. 2 No. 4, pp. 406-436. https://doi.org/10.1108/17579861111183920