Modeling Interactive Buckling of Plate StructuresUsing Special Elements

The interaction of local and overall buckling has been analyzed using a novel finite element in which local buckling deformation has been embedded. Amplitude modulation, a key feature of the interactive buckling, has been incorporated in the element formulation. The model has the following additional features: (1) The inclusion of a key secondary local mode where the cross section has complete or approximate double symmetry; and (2) the introduction of a simple approach for capturing localization of local buckling. This involves incorporating a single local buckling mode in the analysis, but allows the amplitude modulation function to be different for different elements. Numerical examples of thin-walled columns are presented to throw light on these issues as well as to demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the model.