Continuum modeling of lattice structures in large displacement applications to buckling analysis

We consider very large periodic trusses called lattice structures. In classical calculus, the periodic truss character and its global geometry are forgotten. With the homogenization method that we have developed, the lattice is replaced by a continuum model which approaches, in a certain sense, the real structure. This is true when the number of constitutive cells becomes large. The homogenization method has been developed in linear static cases and in free vibration. This paper generalises it for the large displacement assumption. The truss equilibrium is written on the unknown deformed configuration. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd and Civil-Comp Ltd. All rights reserved.