The Thomsen model of inserts in sandwich composites: An evaluation

An one-dimensional finite element model of a sandwich panel with insert is derived using the approach used in the Thomsen model. The one-dimensional model produces results that are close to those of a two-dimensional axisysmmetric model. Both models assume that the core is homogeneous. Our results indicate that the one-dimensional model may be well suited for small deformations of sandwich specimens with foam cores.