Nonlinear oscillations of thick asymmetric cross-ply beams (Q1384754)

The authors investigate the dynamics of a beam consisting of a number of perfectly bounded layers. Each lamina made of undirectional fibre-reinforced material is considered as homogeneous and orthotropic. The orthotropic axes of symmetry in laminas of equal thickness and varying elastic properties are oriented alternately at angles \(0^\circ\) and \(90^\circ\) to the beam axis. The authors employ the first-order shear deformation theory which is based on the assumption that the mid-plane normal remains straight but not necessary normal to the mid-plane after the deformation. The Hamilton's principle is used to derive the equations of motion. The equation of motion for simply supported beam is derived under the assumption that the modes of vibration are prescribed. The stiffnesses of asymmetrically laminated beam are different in opposite directions, which leads to the appearance of quadratic terms in addition to usual linear and cubic terms in governing differential equations. Numerical example show the effects of axial and rotatory inertia on large-amplitude oscillations.