Comparative Analysis of Nonlinear Deformation and Buckling of Thin Elastic Shells of Step-Variable Thickness

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A comparative analysis of finite element models and methods for solving complex problems of geometrically nonlinear deformation, buckling and post-buckling behavior of thin shells of stepwise variable thickness is carried out. An approach based on the use of the moment scheme of finite elements is considered. The features of using the software suite LIRA and integrated software system SCAD for solving the assigned problems are also provided. Thin and medium thickness shells are considered. They can have different geometric features in thickness and be under the action of static thermomechanical loads. A technique for solving these problems with the help of an efficient refined approach is presented. The technique is based on the general methodological positions of the three-dimensional theory of thermoelasticity and the use of the finite element moment scheme. With this approach, the approximation through the shell thickness is carried out by a single universal spatial finite element. The element can be modified in different portions of the shell with a step-variable thickness. It can be located eccentrically relative to the middle surface of the casing and can change its dimensions in the direction of the shell thickness. Such a unified approach made it possible to create a unified designed finite element model of a shell of an inhomogeneous geometric structure under the combined action of a thermomechanical load. A comparative analysis of the application of three finite element approaches for problems of geometrically nonlinear deformation and buckling of shells of stepwise variable thickness is carried out.