Optimal Homotopy Asymptotic Method for Solving a Nonlinear Problem in Elasticity

In this paper a homotopy approach, called the optimal homotopy asymptotic method (OHAM) is presented as a new and powerful technique for analytical treatment of a nonlinear problem related to the stress and deformation state of a thin elastic plate. This technique combines the features of the homotopy concept with an efficient computational algorithm which provides a simple and rigorous procedure to control the convergence of the solution. An excellent agreement is found between the results obtained using OHAM and numerical integration results.