GENERATION AND USE OF SIMPLIFIED UPLIFT SHAPE FUNCTIONS IN UNANCHOREDCYLINDRICAL TANKS

This paper presents a simplified mathematical model for modeling the f lexible bottom plate in an unanchored cylindrical liquid storage tank partially uplifted under the static tilt condition. In this model, the cylindrical tank is divided into substructures according to the defor mation-resistant mechanisms involved. The modeling of each substructur e is based on the Ritz formulation. Numerical results are presented an d compared with reported experimental measurements. The results show t hat the simplified mathematical model is efficient. Practical and accu rate results can be obtained using the model leading to a better under standing of the uplift mechanism. The relationship of the uplift behav ior with the static tilt angle is also presented and discussed.