Modelling of fibre steered plates with coupled thickness variation from overlapping continuous tows

Previous research has hinted on further improvements of the buckling behaviour variable-stiffness laminates by incorporating overlaps, resulting in a variable thickness profile that is non-linearly coupled to steering angles. The present study compares two modelling strategies consider distribution: 1) as-manufactured with discrete thicknesses; and 2) smoothed continuous distribution. created overlapping tows obtained means virtually manufactured laminates. smeared approximation much simpler implement, whereby local non-linear function angle. Linear analyses are performed fast semi-analytical models based Ritz method using hierarchical polynomials classical plate formulation. By assuming smooth manufacturing mould one side, one-sided variation produced, non-symmetric for which mid-plane surface varied accordingly. Modelling guidelines provided regarding use model covering wide range geometries, loading boundary conditions. With these guidelines, can apply technique reach correlation within ±5% compared costly discrete-thickness finite element model.