Time-dependent analysis of anisotropic viscoelastic composite shell structures

A numerical algorithm for analyzing the dynamic responses of anisotropic viscoelastic composite shell structures has been developed in the real time domain. The approach is based on variational principles and direct time integration by the Newmark average acceleration method. Recursion formulas have been obtained in order to reduce computer storage by requiring only the previous time solution to compute the subsequent one. Using the presently developed procedure, the dynamic responses of the viscoelastic graphite/epoxy composite plate and shell structures subjected to various loads are presented. The influence of temperature on the laminated shells is also examined.