Probing the stability of thin-shell space structures under bending

The stability of lightweight space structures composed longitudinal thin-shell elements connected transversely by thin rods is investigated, extending recent work on the cylindrical and spherical shells. role localization in buckling these investigated early transitions into post-buckling regime are unveiled using a probe that locally displaces structure. Multiple locations studied force versus displacement curves analyzed plotted to assess structure’s stability. probing method enables computation energy input needed transition state, which central determining critical mechanism for A landscape finally mechanism. It gives insight structure existence localized states close vicinity fundamental equilibrium path.