Application of functions of rh complex variable to certain three-dimensional problems of elasticity theory

Methods of the theory of functions of a complex variable are applied to problems of the deformation of thin plates of constant or variable thickness considered in three dimensions. To that end, a third complex potential is added to the two complex Kolosov-Muskhelishvili potentials. The components of the displacement vector and the stress tensor are represented in terms of these three complex potentials. The formulations if the problems, characteristic for cases in which complex variables are used in problems of elasticity theory, are investigated. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.