A Conceptual Framework for Practical Progressive Damage Analysis of Stiffened Composite Aircraft Structure with Large Notches Subjected to Combined Loading
Walker, T.H.
Presented at the 63rd Composite Materials Handbook-17 (CMH-17) Meeting, 17 March 2015, Salt Lake City, Utah.
A conceptual analytical framework for predicting the residual strength of stiffened composite structure subjected to combined loading is presented. As background, the physical responses and key influencing variables observed in testing of large-notch composite panels are reviewed. Current analytical approaches are also described, along with their respective strengths and weaknesses. The proposed approach overcomes these weaknesses by combining a generalized laminate-level cohesive zone model with mesh-independent damage growth. Required technology developments to support both the analytical modeling and testing to determine cohesive laws are identified.