Model reduction in thin-walled open-section composite beams using variational asymptotic method. Part I: Theory

Abstract

This two-part work describes the development of a comprehensive and reliable tool for analysis of the most commonly used geometries of thin-walled, open-section composite beams. Part one describes formulation of an asymptotically-correct reduced order model and simple validation examples. The model, developed using the mathematically rigorous Variational Asymptotic Method (VAM), is capable of capturing all nonlinear and non-classical effects observed in anisotropic beams. It leads to closed forms solutions and thus rapid, yet accurate, analysis. Part two describes the application of developed theory to most commonly used geometries of thin-walled, open-section composite beams.