A numerical analysis method for layered plate with different material constants

In this paper, a new numerical analysis method for a three layered plate in which the middle layer has a smaller elasticity coefficient compared with upper and lower layers is presented. The method can investigate the Brazier effect in plate structures. One of numerical models is a three layered rectangular plate due to the pure bending. For the model, the Brazier effect is explained from the following view points: (a) the reason for the occurrence of the Brazier effect in a rectangular plate; (b) factors which cause the Brazier effect; and (c) quantitative estimate of the Brazier effect by approximate method. The another one is a three layered square plate subjected to uniformly distributed load. For the model, the finite element method is introduced. Analysis flow and various analysis results are presented.