High-Order Embedded Finite Elements for the Component-Wise Analysis of Composite Laminated Structures

Abstract

In commercial software, the accurate modeling of multi-component multilayered structures, such as aircraft wings, commonly requires the consideration of different structural finite element types for the various constituents, e.g., stringers, spars, skins, etc. The Component-Wise (CW) approach eliminated the necessity of utilizing different modeling approaches per structural component by modeling them as unique one-dimensional (1D) finite elements with conforming meshes. However, when considering intricate geometries, using a conforming mesh may lead to a vast increment in degrees of freedom. To reduce the computational cost, the embedded CW approach is proposed in this paper. The results shown in the document present a good agreement with reference solutions of previous CW works with savings in terms of degrees of freedom. This reduction can be helpful when more intricate geometries are considered.1