Static and Free Vibration Analyses of Laminated Shells using a Higher-order Theory

Abstract

A C0finite 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 a 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 a convergence study and comparing the results with those available in the existing literature.