ABSTRACT
The analysis of folded plate structures, a special type of shell structures, has been the centre of attention for many researchers, and much information on this topic can be found in an ASCE report. Based on different assumptions and approximations, different shell theories have been proposed. In order to predict correctly the torsional or overall buckling of stiffened panels, it is necessary to take into account the second order terms of the strains as well. The stiffness matrices for various types of strips have so far been derived in terms of a set of local axes, two of which usually coincide with the mid-surface of a strip. Such stiffness matrices can be used directly in plate bending or plane stress problems because all the strips are coplanar. In order to satisfy their engineering as well as aesthetical requirements, bridges can adopt rather complex structural forms.
