Discrete-layer models for multilayered shells accounting for interlayer continuity

Based on a discrete-layer approach, in a recent series of papers, the first author has developed the equations governing the elastodynamic behaviour of moderately thick multilayered anisotropic plates by making use of a displacement field which allows a non-linear variation of the in-plane displacements through the laminate thickness and fulfils a priori the static and geometric continuity conditions at the interfaces between two adjacent layers. Based on this approach, in the present paper we derive the equations of motion and variationally consistent boundary conditions of moderately multilayered anisotropic shells. To show the accuracy and reliability of the proposed approach, closed-form solutions are given and compared with results from three-dimensional elasticity and other approximate bi-dimensional models with and without continuous interlayer stresses. Based on this numerical investigation, the proposed approach appears to work very well.