Chapter 11:

Virtual Work

Engineering Mechanics: Statics

 Chapter Objectives

To introduce the principle of virtual work and

show how it applies to determining the
equilibrium configuration of a series of pin-
connected members.
To establish the potential energy function and
use the potential energy method to
investigate the type of equilibrium or stability
of a rigid body or configuration.
 Chapter Outline

Definition of Work and Virtual Work

Principle of Virtual Work for a Particle and
a Rigid Body
Principle of Virtual Work for a System of
Connected Rigid Bodies
Conservative Forces
Potential Energy
 Chapter Outline
Potential-Energy Criterion for Equilibrium
Stability of Equilibrium