Nonlinear Transient Dynamic Analysis of Laminated Composite Parabolic Panels of Revolution with Variable Thickness Resting on Elastic Foundation

Abstract In this article, nonlinear transient behavior of laminated composite Parabolic Panels of Revolution Structure(s) (PPRS) with variable thickness resting on elastic foundation is investigated using Generalized Differential Quadrature (GDQ) method. Winkler-Pasternak model is used to represent elastic foundation. Linear, arch, sine and cosine thickness functions are used to express variable thickness. In transient analyses, First Order Shear Deformation Theory (FSDT) is used to consider the transverse shear effects. Nonlineartiy is taken into account using Green-Lagrange nonlinear strain-displacement relations considering deepness effect. Virtual work principle is used to derive the equations of motion. Partial derivatives in the equation of motion are expressed with GDQ method and time integration is carried out using Newmark average acceleration method. Several problems are solved and compared with finite element results in order to validate the proposed method. After validation, effects of thickness functions, thickness variation parameter, geometric characteristic parameter of PPRS, boundary conditions, elastic foundation parameters as well as composite lamination scheme on nonlinear transient dynamic behaviour of PPRS are investigated.