The Application of the Principle of Stationary Potential Energy to Some Problems in Finite Elasticity

Abstract

Two applications of the principle of stationary potential energy to the finite straining of a neo-Hookean (rubberlike) material are given in this paper. The major purpose of the work presented is to illustrate the suitability of energy methods for the solution of problems in finite strain theory since the literature of the subject does not contain mention of such solutions. One problem not amenable to the usual inverse methods of finite elasticity is studied approximately. The other problem, involving a stability question of an unusual sort, is handled with ease by means of the energy principle.