Reverberation-ray matrix analysis of the transient dynamic responses of asymmetrically laminated composite beams based on the first-order shear deformation theory

This study extends reverberation-ray matrix (RRM) analysis to include the transient responses of laminated composite beams based on the first shear deformation theory (FSDT) subjected to impulse force load. To validate the developed analysis method, we analyze the velocity response of a laminated cantilever beam model under considering the effect of the first shear deformation and rotary inertia. The transient responses of the laminated composite beam under a half-cycle pulse force and a rectangular pulse force are then solved by the reverberation-ray matrix analysis method (RRM). The reverberation-ray matrix that represents the multi-reflected and scattered waves in the laminated composite beam is demonstrated. The influence of the impact load type and the axial–flexural–shear coupled effects due to asymmetric ply stacking sequences are analyzed. The beam model effects on the calculation results for transient responses are also emphasized. In summary, compared with the finite element method, the proposed approach provides results that are in good agreement with previous findings. The advantage of RRM is that the solution process of RRM is simpler and faster, and requires fewer computational elements.