Hybrid finite element method applied to supersonic flutter of an empty or partially liquid-filled truncated conical shell

In this study, aeroelastic analysis of a truncated conical shell subjected to the external supersonic airflow is carried out. The structural model is based on a combination of linear Sanders thin shell theory and the classic finite element method. Linearized first-order potential (piston) theory with the curvature correction term is coupled with the structural model to account for pressure loading. The influence of stress stiffening due to internal or external pressure and axial compression is also taken into account. The fluid-filled effect is considered as a velocity potential variable at each node of the shell elements at the fluid–structure interface in terms of nodal elastic displacements. Aeroelastic equations using the hybrid finite element formulation are derived and solved numerically. The results are validated using numerical and theoretical data available in the literature. The analysis is accomplished for conical shells of different boundary conditions and cone angles. In all cases the conical shell loses its stability through coupled-mode flutter. This proposed hybrid finite element method can be used efficiently for design and analysis of conical shells employed in high speed aircraft structures.