Efficient prediction of the response of layered shells by a dynamic stiffness approach

In [1] an Equivalent Single Layer (ESL) approach resulting in an efficient and accurate prediction of the response of layered flat panels was presented and validated using experimental results. The application of this approach to curved and cylindrical shells is hereby discussed. The difficulties encountered when attempting to directly apply the Wave Finite Element (WFE) homogenization procedure to curved structures are initially described. Subsequently, an approach accounting for the curvature of the panel within the formulation of the ESL is given. The results of the presented approach for a thick sandwich cylindrical shell are compared to the results of a full three-dimensional FE modelling. The accuracy and the efficiency of the approach are eventually discussed. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.