The Influence of Curvature on the Buckling Characteristics of Structures

Abstract

In the field of applied elasticity, one of the most perplexing problems is the prediction of the buckling load, or rather the failing load of a thin-walled structure with either simple or double curvature. Everyone who has contact with this subject will notice the gap between theory and experimental results. The designer, however, has to proceed with his work regardless of whether or not the theory of elasticity can give him the correction solution of his problem. Hence, in this case he has to resort to empirical relations determined by experimental methods. But such an empirical approach to a complex subject without solid physical basis has its definite limitations. Therefore, a correct picture of the interactions of the different factors which determine the failing load and the mechanism of the failing process will be always useful to the designer.