Optimization of axisymmetric membrane shells

Problems of the joint optimization of the shape and distribution along the meridian of the thickness of membrane shells of revolution under the action of axisymmetric loads are considered, taking account of the constraints concerning the strength of the shell and the volume of its cavity. General formulations of problems of the optimal design of shells of revolution are given and the optimal shape of a shell and the corresponding thickness distribution are investigated. Results of the exact solution of problems of the optimal design of closed shells of revolution when there is an internal pressure are presented. The simultaneous introduction of two control functions, describing the shape of the shell and the distribution of its thickness, not only ensures a substantial reduction in the mass of a shell but also leads to significant mathematical simplifications, which enable the solution of the optimization problem being considered to be obtained in an analytical form.