Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis of Clamped Arches

Abstract

A curved nonlinear finite element is developed to analyze the behavior of slender high‐rise arches that undergo large deflections. The strain analysis is based on the assumptions that plane cross sections remain plane and strains are small. Rotations are unrestricted. In‐plane bending and buckling modes for deep arches with fixed‐end supports are analyzed. Concentrated loads and interacting concentrated and distributed loads are considered. The problem is formulated as a system of rate equations that govern the quasi‐state deformation of an arch. These equations are integrated using a Runge‐Kutta scheme to obtain load‐deflection response.