Finite element analysis of a tapered composite

Global shared-layer blending method for stacking sequence optimization design and blending of composite structures

“…From the mechanical perspective, ply-drops break the load path in the structure, thus cause out-of-plane stress concentrations in tapers which may lead to inplane delamination. Moreover, discontinuity of layers causes loss of integrity as well as increases the manufacturing difficulty and cost [10][11][12].…”