A finite element model for static analysis of curved thin-walled beams based on the concept of equivalent layered composite cross section
M. Lezgy-Nazargah
Abstract
In this study, an accurate 1D finite element model with low degrees of freedom (DOFs) is presented for the static extensional-shearing-bending analysis of curved thin-walled beams. In order to incorporate the nonclassical effects like transverse shear flexibility in the formulation, the concept of equivalent layered composite cross section (ELCS) is employed. Based on this new concept, the cross section of a thin-walled beam is replaced with an equivalent layered composite one. A global–local layered beam theory is employed to describe the displacement fields of the curved beams. A curved beam finite element with three nodes and 13 DOFs is developed for the approximation of the unknown variables of the displacement fields. For validation of the proposed model, the results of 1 D models of other researchers as well as the results of the 2D/3D finite element simulations (ABAQUS) are employed. Needlessness to the shear correction factor, satisfaction of zero-conditions of shear stresses on the upper and lower planes of the curved beam, high accuracy in the prediction of structural responses, and significant reduction in the time of computations are some of distinct features of the proposed finite element model.