Static and free vibration analyses of laminated shells using a higher-order theory

Abstract

ABSTRACT: A C0 finite element formulation using a higher-order shear deformation theory is developed and used to analyze static and dynamic behavior of laminated shells. The element consists of nine degrees-of-freedom per node with higher-order terms in the Taylor’s series expansion which represents the higher-order transverse cross sectional deformation modes. The formulation includes Sanders’ approximation for doubly curved shells considering the effects of rotary inertia and transverse shear. A realistic parabolic distribution of transverse shear strains through the shell thickness is assumed and the use of shear correction factor is avoided. The shell forms include hyperbolic paraboloid, hypar and conoid shells. The accuracy of the formulation is validated by carrying out convergence study and comparing the results with those available in the existing literature.