Higher-order B-spline finite strip model for laminated adaptive structures

This paper presents the development of a higher-order isoparametric B-spline finite strip model, applied to the static and free vibration analysis of composite laminated plate/shell structures, which can have arbitrary lay-ups, loading and boundary conditions. The model considers the possibility of existing embedded and/or surface bonded piezoelectric actuators and sensors, enabling passive control of parameters, such as displacements and natural frequencies. The structure is discritized in a finite number of strips and the geometry and the displacement components of each strip are represented by interpolating functions written as products of cubic B-spline functions and Lagrange and Hermite functions along the y and x strip directions, respectively. The whole structure is modeled through the assembly of a finite number of flat section strips. Several examples are presented and discussed to illustrate the accuracy and capability of the model