Application of a mixed Galerkin/least-squares method to axisymetric shell problems subjected to arbitrary loading

A variationaly consistent finite element formulation for constrained problems free from shear or membrane locking is applied to axisymetric shells subjected to arbitrary loading. The governing equations are writen according to Love's classical theory for a problem of bending of axisymetric thin and moderately thick shells accounting for shear deformation. The mixed variational formulation, in terms of stresses and displacements here presented consists of classical Galerkin method plus mesh-dependent least-square type terms employed with equal-order finite element polynomials. The additional terms enhance stability and accuracy of the original Galerkin method, as already proven theoretically and confirmed trough numerical experiments. Numerical results of some examples are presented to demonstrate the good stability and accuracy of the formulation. (author)