Thick Composite Plates Subjected to Lateral Loading

Abstract

An analytical solution for an orthotropic plate subjected to general lateral loading is presented. The solution uses a stress function approach to obtain the localized stresses and strains due to the loading by an axisymmetric rigid sphere. Plots of load versus local indentation are compared with experimental test data previously reported in the literature. The analysis agrees well with the experimental data and could be used in conjunction with failure criteria to predict damage initiation in such a localized region.