Analysis of Variable Stiffness Panels with Complex Geometries using R-Functions

This paper presents a novel approach for analyzing the linear elastic response of variable stiffness panels. A meshless method is proposed herein, which relies upon a combination of the R-functions and the Ritz method. A powerful and peculiar aspect of this approach consists in the possibility of handling any complex geometry with reduced modeling effort and few degrees of freedom to be handled. The so-obtained formulation is of particular interest for the early design studies of plate-and shell-like structures, especially when topological features are of concern. Specifically, the possibility of studying configurations of arbitrary shape with reduced effort is of crucial importance for exploiting the potential offered by composites with non-straight fibers. Exemplary results are presented for structures with different geometries and shapes. The comparison against results from the literature and finite element calculations reveals the potential of the approach as a valuable mean for assisting the design of innovative variable stiffness configurations.