On the Use of the Nodal Elastica for the Analysis of Flexible Link Devices

Abstract

The equations of the nodal elastica describing the static behavior of an end-loaded flexible strip include forces, elastic properties, dimensions, and some parameters which are not physically measurable. This paper presents a technique whereby the designer can determine reasonable first approximations to the parameters contained in the equations of the nodal elastica. These first approximations are particularly useful for the iterative solution required for the analysis of flexible link devices. An example of the use of this technique is presented.