This section describes how to create a conventional shell
composite layup.
Conventional shell composite layups are composed of plies made of
different materials in different orientations. A layup can contain a different
number of plies in different regions. For more information, see
Composite layups.
Abaqus
models a shell composite layup using conventional shell elements that
discretize only the reference surface of each ply. Shell section behavior is
defined in terms of the response of the shell section to stretching, bending,
twist, and transverse shear. For more information, see
Shell Section Behavior.
When you create conventional shell composite layups, you must choose a
section integration method. You can choose to provide the section property data
before the analysis (a pre-integrated shell section) or to have
Abaqus
calculate (integrate) the cross-sectional behavior from section integration
points during the analysis.
Conventional shell composite layups integrated during analysis allow the
cross-sectional behavior to be calculated by numerical integration through the
shell thickness, thus providing complete generality in material modeling. Any
number of material points can be defined through the thickness, and the
material response can vary from point to point. You generally use shell
elements integrated during analysis when the composite layup includes nonlinear
material behavior. You must use shell elements integrated during analysis to
model heat transfer. For more information, see
Using a Shell Section Integrated during the Analysis to Define the Section Behavior.
Linear moment-bending and force-membrane strain relationships can be
defined using pre-integrated composite layups. In this case all calculations
are done in terms of section forces and moments. The section properties are
specified by an elastic material; optionally, you can also apply an
idealization based on assumptions about the expected behavior or makeup of the
layup. You should use pre-integrated composite layups if the response of the
layup is linear elastic and its behavior is not dependent on changes in
temperature or predefined field variables. For more information, see
Using a General Shell Section to Define the Section Behavior.
After you have created a conventional shell composite layup, you can use a
ply stack plot to view a graphical representation of a core sample through a
region of the layup. For more information, see
Viewing a ply stack plot.