Analysis of Compression Stress of a Filler and Bending of a Sandwich Panel under Multipoint Loading

The distribution of transverse stresses in the midlayer of a composite sandwich panel under multipoint loading is investigated. The stresses averaged across the thickness of a soft filler are estimated using a discrete model. Finite expressions for the compression of the filler along the length of the panel are derived by means of superposition of the local effects from the bending of face layers under an infinite system of transverse point forces constant across the panel thickness. The effects of compression and transverse extension of the filler, in the case of a high distribution frequency of these forces, i.e., when the distance between the forces is comparable to the panel thickness, are revealed. Compression of the panel by two systems of forces applied symmetrically or nonsymmetrically to the upper and lower faces is considered. The bending characteristics in the cases of loading with point forces and piecewise distributed loads are compared. The formulas obtained are used to determine the length of a small region on the panel surface for which the local effects from the distributed pressure and the point force are equivalent. The corresponding estimates are obtained in a closed form. The analysis, carried out with varied parameters of the structure, allows us to elucidate the peculiarities of the effect of discontinuous loads on the design characteristics in the local zones, using finite expressions derived by the operational method.