Abstract :
The authors develop an eigth-order
model for bending of transversally isotropic plates
and use integral transforms and a collocation
method to form a line-spring model for a cracked
plate. The eigth-order model allows satisfaction of
the three standard plate bending boundary conditions;
the normal moment, twisting moment, and
transverse shear force, and an additional shear
stress resultant that allows analysis of transverse
normal stresses near the crack tip. The line-spring
model is used to develop geometry correction
factors for bending of finite-thickness plates,
accounting for transverse shear deformation and
pressurization of the plate near the crack tip. The
line-spring model is then applied to the problem
of a plate with a reinforced crack, and the results
are used to validate an interpolation solution based
on an energy method. While not explicitly analysed,
the models are applicable to many problems,
including bending of bonded repairs, fracture and
fatigue of composite and layered materials, surface
cracks, crack tip plasticity and crack closure
or crack face interactio
