This section describes how to create a homogeneous shell section.
Shell section behavior is defined in terms of the response of the shell
section to stretching, bending, shear, and torsion. For more information, see
Shell section behavior.
When you create shell sections, you must choose a section integration
method. You can choose to provide the section property data before the analysis
(a pre-integrated shell section) or to have
Abaqus
calculate (integrate) the cross-sectional behavior from section integration
points during the analysis.
Shell sections integrated during analysis allow the cross-sectional
behavior to be calculated by numerical integration through the shell thickness,
thus providing complete generality in material modeling. Any number of material
points can be defined through the thickness, and the material response can vary
from point to point. This type of shell section is generally used with
nonlinear material behavior in the section. It must be used with shells that
provide for heat transfer. For more information, see
Using a shell section integrated during the analysis to define the section behavior.
Linear moment-bending and force-membrane strain relationships can be
defined using pre-integrated shell sections. In this case all calculations are
done in terms of section forces and moments. The section properties are
specified by an elastic material; optionally, you can also apply an
idealization based on assumptions about the expected behavior of the shell. Use
a pre-integrated shell section if the response of the shell is linear elastic
and its behavior is not dependent on changes in temperature or predefined field
variables. For more information, see
Using a general shell section to define the section behavior.