Global-local plug-in for high-fidelity composite stress analysis in ABAQUS

This paper introduces a user-friendly tool for accurate stress prediction in laminate shell models in ABAQUS. The aim is to provide users with a code for the fast computation of three-dimensional solutions that overcome the limitations of classical shell models and facilitate the use of advanced composite failure criteria consistently. The methodology is based on a two-step global/local technique, denoted to as element-wise (EW), in which accurate local models with 3D capabilities stem from individual shell elements. The local analysis exploits refined laminated theories accounting for layer-wise deformations. Numerical examples on a typical aircraft structure serve as assessments to show the tool capabilities in handling various failure mode onsets., e.g., fiber breakage and matrix cracking.