Large deflection of simple variable-arc-length beam subjected to a point load

Abstract

This paper considers large deflection problem of a simply supported beam with variable arc length subjected to a point load. The beam has one of its ends hinged and at a fixed distance from this end propped by a frictionless support over which the beam can slide freely. This highly nonlinear flexural problem is solved by elliptic-integral method and shooting-optimization technique, thereby providing independent checks on the new solutions. Because the beam can slide freely over the frictionless support, there is a maximum or critical load which the beam can carry and it is dependent on the position of the load. Interestingly, two possible equilibrium configurations can be obtained for a given load magnitude which is less than the critical value. The maximum arc-length was found to be equal to about 2.19 times the fixed distance between the supports and this value is independent of the load position.