Semi-analytical postbuckling strength analysis of anisotropic shell structures

An investigation of the forms of shell buckling has been the subject of many experimental and theoretical studies. On the basis of analysing of the forms of equilibrium it is possible to determine the stability of a structure as a whole, especially if a statistical analysis is used. The numerical analysis of the shells considered is based on a semi-analytical treatment of displacement and stress field. This method is proven for static and dynamic nonlinear analysis of general shells of revolution and leads to important advantages in efficiency and accuracy compared with a common finite element analysis, especially in the case of geometrically imperfect shells. The method developed permits determination of stresses in a shell by means of an experimental deflection function. Failure criterion allows predicting the sites of fracture and maintenance of a shell upon loss of stability.