An extension of standard beam and plate theory adapted for structures with a soft core and stiff outer faces. Sandwich theory accounts for the significant transverse shear deformation that occurs in the thick, low-density core, which classical Euler-Bernoulli theory ignores. Engineers use these equations to predict buckling, bending, and failure modes in lightweight composite panels.
Heard on the job
If you just use standard beam equations instead of sandwich theory, you'll severely underestimate the shear deflection.