A rectangular finite element for analysing composite multilayered shallow shells in statics, vibration and buckling

Abstract

Abstract This paper presents a new 32‐degree‐of‐freedom finite element of multilayered composite, moderately thick, shallow shells. The element is a four‐node C 1 rectangular element and is built from standard interpolations but with a new kind of kinematics which allows us to exactly ensure the continuity conditions for displacements and stresses at the interfaces between the layers of a laminated structure and the boundary conditions at the upper and lower surfaces of the shell. The transverse shear deformation which is represented by cosine functions is of a higher order and allows us to avoid shear correction factors. The element is evaluated on standard problems and in comparison with exact three‐dimensional and analytical solutions for multilayered plates and shells in statics, vibrations and stability.