A COMPUTER PROGRAM FOR THE ANALYSIS OF THIN SHELLS

Abstract : The finite element method is used for the analysis of thin shells of arbitrary geometry. The shell surface is idealized by an assemblage of flat triangular elements, and the stiffness properties of each element are evaluated. The stiffness of the complete assemblage is obtained by the direct stiffness procedure. The computer program is suitable for the static analysis of linear shells subjected to arbitrary surface pressure loadings and concentrated nodal forces. Displacement boundary conditions can also be specified. The use of the program and a listing of the FORTRAN IV program for the CDC 6400 are given in the report. Also, a discussion of the analysis of a toroidal shell with meridional stiffeners is included as an example. (Author)