Static analysis of functionally graded conical shells and panels using the generalized unconstrained third order theory coupled with the stress recovery

This study focuses on the static analysis of functionally graded conical shells and panels and extends a previous formulation by the first three authors. A 2D Unconstrained Third order Shear Deformation Theory (UTSDT) is used for the evaluation of tangential and normal stresses in moderately thick functionally graded truncated conical shells and panels subjected to meridian, circumferential and normal uniform loadings. To investigate the behavior of the functionally graded structures at issue, a four parameter power law function is considered. The initial curvature effect is discussed and the role of the parameters in the power law function is shown. The conical shell problem described in terms of seven partial differential equations is solved by using the generalized differential quadrature (GDQ) method. Transverse and normal stresses are also calculated by integrating the three dimensional equations of equilibrium in the thickness direction. The stress recovery is worked out to reconstruct the correct distribution of transverse stress components. Accurate stress profiles for general loading combinations applied at the extreme surfaces are obtained. The influence of the semi vertex angle is pointed out. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.