Exact Equations for the Large Inextensional Motion of Elastic Plates

Abstract

The governing equations for plates that twist as they deform are reduced to 14 differential equations, first-order in a single space variable and second-order in time. Many of the equations are the same as for statics. Nevertheless, the extension to dynamics is nontrivial because the natural coordinates to use to describe the deformed, developable midsurface are not Lagrangian. The plate is assumed to have two curved, stress-free edges, one built-in straight edge, and one free straight edge acted upon by a force and a couple. There are 7 boundary conditions at the built-in end and 7 at the free end.