Field equations, equations of motion, and energy functionals for thick shells of revolution with arbitrary curvature and variable thickness from a three-dimensional theory

Abstract

This work uses tensor calculus to derive a complete set of three-dimensional field equations well-suited for determining the behavior of thick shells of revolution having arbitrary curvature and variable thickness. The material is assumed to be homogeneous, isotropic and linearly elastic. The equations are expressed in terms of coordinates tangent and normal to the shell middle surface. The relationships are combined to yield equations of motion in terms of orthogonal displacement components taken in the meridional, normal and circumferential directions. Strain energy and kinetic energy functionals are also presented. The equations of motion and energy functionals may be used to determine the static or dynamic displacements and stresses in shells of revolution, including free and forced vibration and wave propagation.