Optimal design of axially symmetrical shells under hydrostatic pressure with respect to their stability

In this paper, the problem of optimal design of axially symmetrical shells against instability is considered. We look for the shape of middle surface as well as the thickness (constant or variable) of a shell, which ensure maximal value of the critical hydrostatic pressure. As the equality constraints the volume of material and the capacity of a shell are considered. The concept of a shell of uniform stability is applied. Received November 23, 1998