Complementary post-buckling analyses of truss-lattice shear panels

The stable post-buckling behaviour of a truss-lattice panel is modelled using three complementary analysis techniques. The standard finite element method is well-established and produces accurate results, but with limited detail around the buckling load owing to the imperfection which is required to initiate the post-buckling analysis. An exact solution is developed to describe the mode shapes based on the load in the structural members, which produces excellent results in initial and advanced post-buckling. A Rayleigh-Ritz method based on a Fourier approximation to the mode shape provides the useful progression from an unbuckled to a buckled structure, giving excellent results in initial post-buckling, although is limited for advanced post-buckling.