Design considerations for composite cylindrical shells on elastic foundations subject to compression buckling

Elastic boundary conditions play an important role in the buckling analysis of cylinders under compressive loading. These structures are used widely aerospace applications and highly sensitive to geometrical, material, loading, imperfections. In fact, presence these imperfections can lead catastrophic failure. 1968, NASA reported relations for obtaining Knockdown Factor (KDF) based on empirical method that is valid isotropic orthotropic materials; however, do not consider effect elastic boundaries conservative values KDF. design practice, a universal KDF 0.65 has been recent designs by NASA, which may be applicable new types structural configuration with different loading conditions. Therefore, there need robust factors future reduce dependency testing during preliminary phases speeds up product development process. The availability up-to-date expressions configurations would help engineers lighter improved load carrying capacity reliability. main objective this work identify sensitivity cylindrical shells due their develop considering boundaries. To achieve goal, axial, radial tangential support stiffness quasi-isotropic cylinder axial compression investigated. A data-driven approach foundations. accuracy within 5% any foundation considered.