Introduction

This e-book focuses on the vibrational and nonlinear aspects of plate and shell structure dynamics by applying the finite element model. Specifically, shell finite elements employed in the computational studies included in this book are the mixed formulation based lower order flat triangular shell finite elements. Topics in the book are covered over nine chapters, including the theoretical background for the vibration analysis of plates and shells, vibration analysis of plate structures, shells with single curvature, shells with double curvatures, and box structures (single-cell and double-cell) and the theoretical development for the nonlinear dynamic analysis of plate and shell structures. In addition to presenting the steps in the derivations of the consistent element stiffness and mass matrices, constitutive relations of elastic materials and elasto-plastic materials with isotropic strain hardening, yield criterion, return mapping, configuration and stress updating strategies, and numerical algorithms are presented and discussed. The book is a suitable reference for advanced undergraduates and post-graduate level engineering students, research engineers, and scientists working in the field of applied physics and engineering.