Non-linear random response of laminated composite shallow shells using finite element modal method

This paper investigates the large-amplitude multi-mode random response of thin shallow shells with rectangular planform at elevated temperatures using a finite element non-linear modal formulation. A thin laminated composite shallow shell element and the system equations of motion are developed. The system equations in structural node degrees-of-freedom (DOF) are transformed into modal coordinates, and the non-linear stiffness matrices are transformed into non-linear modal stiffness matrices. The number of modal equations is much smaller than the number of equations in structural node DOF. A numerical integration is employed to determine the random response. Thermal buckling deflections are obtained to explain the intermittent snap-through phenomenon. The natural frequencies of the infinitesimal vibration about the thermally buckled equilibrium positions (BEPs) are studied, and it is found that there is great difference between the frequencies about the primary (positive) and the secondary (negative) BEPs. All three types of motion: (i) linear random vibration about the primary BEP, (ii) intermittent snap-through between the two BEPs, and (iii) non-linear large-amplitude random vibration over the two BEPs, can be predicted. Copyright 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd