Modified Strip Model for Analyzing the Line Heating Method-Part 1: Elastic Plates

The line heating method can be most useful in the automation of plate forming and for removal of undesired residual distortions during shipbuilding. The three-dimensional transient temperature and stress fields complicate the problem of simulating the line heating process. In past research efforts, a strip model taken perpendicular to the heated line was used. However, recent experimental and theoretical works have demonstrated the need for a different model. Recognizing that the existing strip model cannot be used effectively in the analysis of the stress-strain field during the line heating process, a modified strip model is suggested. In Part 1 of this paper, the concept of a modified strip is introduced by developing a theory for an elastic modified strip. The results of selected examples show that the modified strip model gives excellent results for elastic plates in comparison with a regular strip model. In Part 2 (to be published in a later issue of JSR), the theory is extended to the thermo-elastic-plastic modified strip. The concept of a modified elastic strip may have other useful applications and therefore is highlighted separately.