Theoretical definition of a new custom finite element for structural modeling of composite bolted joints

The general definition of a novel finite element for structural analysis of composite bolted joints is presented. The work aims to define an accurate and computationally efficient simulation tool for multi-jointed composite structures characterized by a low entry of degrees of freedom. The modeling approach exploits the full stiffness evaluation of the bolted region from the analytical standpoint. Two main stiffness contributions are defined:...