A unified formulation for composite quasi-3D elements based on global-local superposition. Part II: Implementation and numerical assessment

This two-paper series proposes a unified theory that gives rise to a family of quasi-3D composite elements. The first paper presents the element formulation and its basic capabilities: the ability to capture transverse normal (sigma(z)) and shear (tau(yz), tau(xz)) stresses, suitability for thermoelastic analyses and compliance to both displacements and transverse stress continuity requirements. These capabilities are inherent to the element since a global-local superposition approach is devised that, from inception, guarantees that equilibrium equations, continuity consistency and boundary conditions are fully met. A simple validation analysis was conducted in part I that initially pointed to a very promising direction with high numerical efficiency of the element. This second paper investigates the element numerical performance under different scenarios: use of three- and four-node parent elements, degree of global interpolation functions, adequacy of different local interpolation functions (F-0, F-1, G(0), G(1), H-0, H-1) and consideration of a more practical configuration of a reinforced panel consisting of multiple laminates. Through-the-thickness displacements, strains and stresses are obtained and shown to be of reasonable accuracy. Results are compared against a highly refined mesh of 3D brick elements implemented in a commercial software that provide a benchmark for the elements capabilities.