A variational analysis of small finite deformations of pretwisted elastic beams (Q1062801)

The principle of minimum potential energy, in conjunction with a suitably assumed strain energy density and in conjunction with suitably assumed expressions for strain and displacement components, is used to derive a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations for the problem of stretching, shearing, bending, twisting and warping of pre-twisted originally straight beams. Two problems which are considered in some detail concern the combined finite stretching and twisting of beams with doubly symmetric cross-section, and the influence of pretwist on shear and twist center locations.