A semianalytical solution method to predict stress field and structural
bifurcation in laminates having a cutout by employing a simple
-plate
theory is presented. The stress analysis includes both in-plane and bending stress fields.
In this theory, the in-plane and out-of-plane displacement fields are respectively
assumed in the forms of cubic and uniform through-the-thickness expansions. The
cubic expansion ensures the correct behavior of transverse shear deformations while
satisfying the condition of zero transverse shear stresses at the laminate faces. The
equations of equilibrium for the stress and buckling analysis are derived based on the
principle of stationary potential energy. Comparison against the classical laminate and
-plate
theories proves this semianalytical method credible.