The Finite Element Method applied to the analysis of sandwich plate and shell structures

Using the hybrid approach suggested by Pian, finite elements are derived and tested for the static analysis of sandwich plate and shell structures. The core of the sandwich is assumed to take all the transverse shearing, and the faces, which are of equal thickness and thin when compared with the core, take all the bending stresses, and also membrane stresses in the case of the shell element. As the Kirchhoff Hypothesis is not maintained realistic transverse shearing deformations are obtained, and solutions are good for all cases tested. The sandwich shell element, however, requires more extensive testing before its general use can be recommended.