Refined theory for the analysis of laminated orthotropic structures

A new higher-order theory for the analysis of laminated orthotropic plates and shells subject to both mechanical and thermal loads is developed. Using the variational approach the system of governing differential equations and corresponding boundary conditions are derived. Two refined models of the stress and strain state are considered, their application and accuracy are discussed. The analytical solution is obtained for plates and shells with the Navier boundary conditions on the side surfaces. The results of calculations are given and compared with an exact three-dimensional solution available in the literature. The influence of the laminated structure upon the exactness of results and the characteristics of stress–strain state is studied and discussed.