Abstract: This paper gives the perturbation formulation of continuation method for nonlinear equations. Emphasis is laid on the discussion of searching for the singular points on the equilibrium path and of tracing the paths over the limit or bifurcation points. The method is applied to buckling analysis of thin shells. The pre-and post-buckling equilibrium paths and deflections can be obtained, which are illustrated in examples of buckling analysis of cylindrical and toroidal shells.

Key words: continuation method, perturbation, limit point, bifurcation point, thin shell buckling