Harmonic response computation of viscoelastic multilayered structures using a ZPST shell element

This paper uses the ZPST multilayered shell element developed by Sulmoni et al. to compute the dynamic response of multilayered viscoelastic structures such as windscreens or car bodyworks. It is based on the P-order shear deformation theory with an added zigzag function. The viscoelastic properties are taken into account with frequency dependent elastic moduli measured with a Dynamic Mechanical Thermal Analyzer. A method based on Pade approximant is also used to reduce the computation time. This acceleration technique enables to achieve fast frequency sweep computations compared to a standard direct method. Finally, validations are made on plates and cylindrical geometries. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.