BEST INTERIOR SHELL EQUATIONS INCLUDING T RANSVERSE-SHEAR DEFORMATIONS AND THICKNESS CHANGES

Consistent shell theories can be derived in a particular correct manne r by linear approximation of conservation laws of a three-dimensional continuum, described as a multi-director-body. In the present paper be st interior shell equations - formulated in velocities - are developed , valid for arbitrarily large deformations and rather optional materia l laws, incorporating shear distorsions and thickness changes. The opt imal character of the theory is guaranteed by the derivation process a nd proven by bounding techniques using tensor norms.