Eigenfrequencies of anisotropic composite shells of revolution having nonuniform supports (Q1097752)

A general procedure for computing the natural frequencies of multilayered anisotropic thin shells of revolution is presented, with particular reference to cylindrical shells. The general case in which nonuniform boundary conditions exist is treated. The method is applicable to any linear equations of motion. Use is made of a finite complex Fourier transform. Circumferential model coupling, induced by the nonuniformity of the boundary conditions, leads to the necessity to find the roots of a large determinantal equation. Important computational aspects of the solution procedure are discussed. Sample results for some single and bilayered cylindrical shells indicate the viability of the procedure, and suggest the possibility of conrolling the shells' sensitivity to imperfect manufacturing at the boundaries by suitable fiber-winding and lay-up of composite materials.