Elasticity solutions for orthotropic functionally graded curved beams

Elasticity solutions are presented for curved beams with n orthotropic functionally graded layers by means of the Airy stress function method. The beams are subjected to a uniform load on the outer surface and may have various constraints or/and loads at ends. Firstly, the stresses and displacements are expressed in terms of three unknown functions for a general model. Secondly, the unknown functions are deduced for two slightly general forms of elastic compliance parameters and represented by the generalized hypergeometric functions. Thirdly, the boundary and continuity conditions to determine integral constants are given. As the application, a curved cantilever beam, with three different variations in the elastic compliance parameters and under two types of loads, is discussed.

► Elasticity solutions are presented for curved beams with n layers. ► Each layer is orthotropic and functionally graded. ► Two slightly general forms of elastic compliance parameters are considered.