A unified framework for equivalent single layer theories of composite beams, plates, and shells: a review

Abstract

This article presents a comprehensive review of the unified framework for the equivalent single layer theories of composite beams, plates and shells. First, the approach to unified displacement fields has two main categories: one is to start from the assumption of linear displacement field variables. And the another is to start from the assumption of transverse strains and transverse displacement variable. In terms of unified shape functions, the shape function is defined as the function that exist in the transverse strain rather than the in-plane displacement variables. Moreover, the basic requirements for the choose of shape functions are also given and analysed in this paper. The unified shape functions are introduced in terms of the several functions and the unified polynomial model. In addition, a construction method for new shear strain shape functions is described in this review. Finally, the current research progress and future prospects are also given.