Experimental validation of a generalized shell formulation by mixed finite element approach

Abstract

The discrete modelling of plates and shells has been expanding in the past few decades, especially with the advances in finite element development. In fact, possibly the greatest effort has gone into this sphere and one may find innumerable papers and publications directed towards this field. Even now, researchers are trying to establish mathematical models which behave more closely to the experimental and physical behaviour of the structure itself, and at the same time, involve lower computational times. This paper deals with a generic shell formulation, using a modified Hellinger-Reissner principle, and tries to explore its usage for various forms of shell structures. The purpose of this paper is to correlate the results of the mathematical model with the actual experimental data obtained for a right shallow parabolic conoidal shell. The close proximity of the values obtained gives a greater sense of confidence to users and research workers in this field. A study is also conducted to examine the applicability of the generalized shell formulation in giving accurate results for thick plates. It is observed that an excellent correlation exists between the present results with those obtained by using eight-noded solid elements.