The robust Semiloof element formulation is used as the basis for the development of a doubly curved shell integral stiffener finite element. The resulting group of three elements offer a practical method for the analysis of a wide range of industrial components. Using the integrally stiffened element, the data preparation for the analysis of a stiffened shell structure is minimised because the shell and stiffeners can be modelled independently. This new design tool is derived by performing a calculation for the stiffness matrix of a Semiloof beam and then transforming the freedoms of the Semiloof beam to those of a Semiloof shell. Crucial to the calculation of the transformation matrix is the ability to be able to transform the global cartesian coordinates of a location point along the stiffener, to the local isoparametric coordinates of the parent Semiloof shell. Use of the Semiloof integral stiffeners is demonstrated with some simple problems, and the versatility of Semiloof in industrial applications is indicated.

purchase the full-text of this paper (price £20)

go to the previous paper
go to the next paper
return to the table of contents
return to the book description
purchase this book (price £58 +P&P)