Nonlinear deformations of spherical panels subjected to transversal load action

Nonlinear behaviour of flexible shallow rectangular spherical panels subjected to a uniformly distributed transversal load is analysed. Detection of bifurcation points and construction of bifurcation branches on a ‘load–deflection’ characteristic are mainly addressed. The proposed algorithm is based on a set-up method. Geometrical parameters of shallow shells bifurcations are estimated numerically, and an evolution of bifurcation diagrams vs geometrical parameters kx, ky is traced. An increase of geometrical parameters yields an increase of the set of solutions. Besides symmetrical ones, unsymmetrical solutions are detected, illustrated, and discussed as well.