Analysis and Design of Thin Struts With Large Elastic Displacements: Part 1—Analysis of the Properties of the Solutions of the Nonlinear Differential Equations and the Behavior of the Strut

Abstract

Employing a transformation technique, an analysis is made of the properties of the solution of the differential equations resulting from the analysis of the elastic behavior of an eccentrically loaded thin strut. The thin strut is made to experience large deflections and the end supports are simultaneously pinned and restrained by torsional bar springs. The paper is divided into two parts. Part 1 deals primarily with the properties of the solution of the equations; and Part 2 deals with the practical engineering aspect where, employing Part 1, realistic values and ranges of parameters are assigned. The resulting design curves and tables, useful to the design engineer, are presented.