Two-dimensional solutions for orthotropic materials by the state space method

A state space method for two-dimensional problems of orthotropic materials is proposed which provides an alternative method to investigate the mechanical behavior of homogeneous and laminated beams. The method is illustrated for a homogenous/laminated beam subjected to time-dependent transverse loads. A particular solution for a straight-crested wave propagating along an infinite beam is obtained. The bending, buckling and free vibrations of composite beams are also studied. Numerical results are presented and compared with those available in the literature.