Vibration analysis of rotating variable-angle-tow composite cylindrical structures via high-fidelity shell models

The paper focuses on rotordynamics analyses of various rotating variable-angle-tow (VAT) composite cylindrical structures using both low- and high-fidelity structural models. To model the spatially varying composite shell structures, the Carrera Unified Formulation (CUF) is employed. The CUF provides a hierarchical and automated approach for developing shell finite element models. Various shell models are created using different kinematics models based on Taylor or Lagrange expansion functions. The linearized equations of motion include the Coriolis and initial stress contributions. Several VAT composite curved panels and thin and thick cylinders have been analyzed to validate the presented approach and provide benchmark solutions. The results are discussed and compared with commercial software solutions. The results demonstrate the good accuracy and reliability of the proposed numerical methodology.