On the nonlinear dynamics of shell structures: Combining a mixed finite element formulation and a robust integration scheme

In this work, we present an approach to analyze the nonlinear dynamics of shell structures, which combines a mixed finite element formulation and a robust integration scheme. The structure is spatially discretized with extensible-director-based solid-degenerate shells. The semi-discrete equations are temporally discretized with a momentum-preserving, energy-preserving/decaying method, which allows to mitigate the effects due to unresolved high-frequency content. Additionally, kinematic constraints are employed to render structural junctions. Finally, the method, which can be used to analyze blades of wind turbines or wings of airplanes effectively, is tested and its capabilities are illustrated by means of examples.