A multi-mode random imperfection model in shell stability analysis

摘要

It is generally accepted that the load carrying capacity of cylindrical shells is highly dependent on the presence of initial imperfections, among other factors, such as boundary conditions and plasticity effects. ^In order to be able to design reliable cylindrical shells a so-called 'knock down' factor is used. ^This 'knock down' factor is in this context only theoretically dependent on geometry parameters. ^Therefore, in order to be able to explain the empirical buckling load scatter, one needs to incorporate this scatter into the parameters of the shell model. ^Then, the quantified scatter of the parameters allows a probabilistic approach. ^(Author)