Essentials of the Theory of Soft Shells

Abstract

A class of thin shells that:

• 1. h/L $\simeq {1}{0^{ - {5}}}/{1}{0^{ - {2}}}$, L is the characteristic dimension of a shell

• 2. Possess zero-flexural rigidity

• 3. Do not withstand compression forces

• 4. Their actual configuration depends entirely on internal/external loads distributed over unit surface area

• 5. Undergo finite deformations

• 6. Their stress–strain states are fully described by in-plane membrane forces per unit length

is called soft shells.