Abstract:
This thesis deals with the large deflection analysis of variable-arc-length beams using
the finite element method. Two main problems are considered. One is a continuous beam bent
through different level of supports, and the other is a simple beam problem. For the continuous
beam problem, the beam is hinged at one end while at the other supports the beam is free to
slide over. The finite circular supports are also included in the continuous beam model
formulation. For the simple beam problem, one end of the beam is hinged and elastically
restrained against rotation while the other end is allowed to slide over a friction support. The
location of supports are specified by Cartesian coordinates system. The distance between two
end supports is the span length which is known, however the total arc-length of the beam is
initially unknown. The beam can be subjected to the following loading conditions, (1) a point
load at midspan, (2) bending moment applied at both ends in opposite direction, (3) bending
moment applied at both ends in the same direction, (4) a uniform load along the arc -length,
(5) a uniform load along the projection of beam on the horizontal axis, (6) the axial forces at the
ends, (7) combination of these loading conditions. The equilibrium configurations of the beam
under these loading conditions are to be determined. To solve the problem, an energy functional
is formulated which involves the strain energy of beam and work done by the external forces.
For stable equilibrium, the first variation of the functional is vanished. Since the problem is
nonlinear, the finite element method and Newton-Raphson iterative process is used to solved it.
The finite element discretization is made along the projection of the continuous beam on the
horizontal axis. The unknown displacement variable is determined by minimization of the
energy functional. The numerical results are compared with these obtained from previous
research work, they are found to be in good agreement.