Contact formulation of non-linear problems in the mechanics of shells with their end sections connected by a plane curvilinear rod

Starting from the consistent version of the geometrically non-linear equations of the theory of elasticity for small deformations and arbitrary displacements, a Timoshenko-type model that takes account of shear and compression deformations and also an extended variational Lagrange principle, an improved geometrically non-linear theory of static deformation is constructed for reinforced thin-walled structures with shell elements, the end sections of which are connected by a rod. It is based on the introduction into the treatment of contact forces and torques as unknowns on the lines joining the shells to the rods and it enables all classical and non-classical forms of loss of stability in structures of the class considered to be investigated. An analytical solution of the problem of the stability of a rectangular plate, that is under compression in one direction, supported by a hinge along two opposite edges and joined by a hinge with an elastic rod on one of the other two edges, is found using a simplified version of the linearized equations.