Optimal Shape Design of Shell Structures

Shell structures are extensively used in all fields of engineering. Examples include architectural structures, hydraulic structures, containers, automobiles, spacecraft, aircraft, ships, machine parts, instruments, etc.. We can find them in nature such as an egg, sea-shells, insects. Although shell structures are thin and light, they span over large areas, and have high load-carrying capacity. In the design of a shell structure, it is important to optimize its shape in order to make the structure light with the minimum amount of material, satisfying the various mechanical characteristics, functions and sometimes beautiful form.