MECHANICAL-BEHAVIOR OF BIMODULAR LAMINATES ON ELASTIC-FOUNDATION

A finite element formulation of the Hencky-Mindlin plate theory is made that leads to a system of nonlinear algebraic equations. They are solved using a direct iterative procedure for bimodular laminates resting on a Winkler foundation such that the contact is frictionless and unilateral. The numerical results exhibit the mechanical behavior of the system as influenced by the material properties, boundary and contact conditions in addition to the system geometry and loading type. They also compared well with existing solutions in the open literature.