Two-dimensional analytical solution for multi-segmented Al/ steel- composite panel-An Aerospace Application

Abstract

: E-vehicles and light weight structural parts in automotive and aerospace industry has led to design and development of new structures where traditional materials aluminium/steel are joined with composite laminated materials. This approach has led the engineers/researchers to reduce weight and ultimately save fuel consumption and reduce carbon footprints. Moreover, prosthetic limbs are also designed to have varying material along the length for better suitability. The above problems cannot be analysed using functionally graded theories/concepts. In theory, material properties vary linearly, exponentially, or power-law-like along x-values but for the above cases, material property does not follow a particular variation. Further even, it is not always practical to produce or manufacture components having very smooth variations along the length. In an attempt is made to develop the 2D analytical solution for multi-segmented Al/ steel- composite panel under transverse loading. Extended Kantorovich method is used for developing governing equations. Continuity of displacement and stresses are satisfied at interface of each segment. Two segmented panels having aluminium/steel and Gr/Ep equal and unequal segment are considered. The deflection and stresses are compared with the finite element solution and found in good agreement.