Dynamic Behavior of Aircraft Wings Modeled as Doubly-Tapered Composite Thin-Walled Beams

A study of the dynamical behavior of aircraft wings modeled as doubly-tapered thin-walled beams, made from advanced anisotropic composite materials, and incorporating a number of non-classical effects such as transverse shear, and warping inhibition is presented. The supplied numerical results illustrate the effects played by the taper ratio, anisotropy of constituent materials, transverse shear flexibility, and warping inhibition on free vibration and dynamic response to time-dependent external excitations. Although considered for aircraft wings, this analysis and results can be also applied to a large number of structures such as helicopter blades, robotic manipulator arms, space booms, tall cantilever chimneys, etc.