Question.10.25 A simply supported beam carries a load P at a distance c away from its left end.

Obtain the beam deflection at the point where P is applied .Use the Rayleigh-Ritz method. Assume a deflection curve of the form, v = a.x(L-x), where a is to be determined.

y x P

c L

Solution. In accordance with the Rayleigh-Ritz method, = U W Where, = Potential energy U = Strain energy W = Change in potential

U = U 0 .dV

U =

M .y .dV 2 E. I 2
2 M .( y .dA).dx ..Since, dV = dA.dx 2E I 2 2

U =

But,

2 M v = E.I x 2

EI L 2 v U = . ( ) .dx 2 0 x2

v = a.x( L x) .assumed deflection curve.

dv = a ( L 2 x) dx

2 v 2 = 2 a x

EI L 2 . (2a ) .dx 2 0 U = 2 EI . a 2 .L U =

And, since W = P. vc = p.a.c.( L c) Hence, we have = U W = 2 EI a 2 .L + P.a.c.( L c) As the potential energy must be minimum at equilibrium, =0 a 2 EIL(2a) P.c.( L c) = 0 P.c.( L c) a = 4 EIL Now, we substitute this constant back in the assumed deflection curve equation, so that we will be able to calculate the deflection at any section of the beam. P.c.( L c) v= .x.( L x) 4 EIL Now, at the desired section, x = c (distance from the left end.) P. c 2 ( L c)2 vc = 4 EIL