Beam Loading and Superposition Method

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the analysis of beam deflections under various loading conditions, specifically focusing on a cantilevered beam and a simply supported beam. Participants explore the application of superposition methods and different approaches to calculate deflections at specific points on the beams.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents equations for deflection in cantilevered and simply supported beams and seeks clarification on the application of these equations to specific loading scenarios.
  • Another participant suggests that the fixed cantilever deflection cannot be applied due to the lack of fixity at point B, proposing a geometric method to find deflection at point C.
  • A different participant recommends using virtual work to set deflections equal for each case to solve for the load P.
  • Some participants express differing opinions on whether to use tables for deflections or to rely on numerical calculations, with one suggesting that tables may not be available during exams.
  • One participant mentions the Macaulay method as a potential approach for solving the problem, indicating a need to calculate deflection at point C due to the load between points A and B.
  • Another participant shares specific formulas for deflection caused by uniform load and point load, indicating a potential method for calculation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the preferred method for solving the problem, with some advocating for the use of tables and others suggesting a more manual calculation approach. There is no consensus on the best method to apply.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific equations and methods without fully resolving the assumptions or conditions under which these methods apply. The discussion includes various approaches that may depend on the context of the problem and the tools available to the participants.

Double A
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Homework Statement



See attachement titled p8.jpg

Homework Equations


The following equations apply to a cantilevered beam held fixed on the left end:

\delta_{max} = -\frac{PL^3}{3EI}

\theta = -\frac{PL^2}{2EI}

\delta = \frac{P}{6EI}(x^3-3Lx^2)

The following equations apply to a simply supported beam with a constant distrubuted load:

\delta_{max} = -\frac{5\omega L^4}{384EI}

\theta = -\frac{\omega L^3}{24EI}

\delta = -\frac{\omega}{24EI}(x^4-2Lx^3+L^3x)

The Attempt at a Solution



I started my superposition solution as shown in attachment s8.jpg. I wanted find out if the deflection caused by the distributed load between points A and B is equivilent to the amount of deflection that would occur at point C in the first case. For the second case is the deflection caused by the load occur between points B and C or across the entire beam? I'm having a difficult time trying to find the best equation to discribe each case.
 

Attachments

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Last edited:
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You can't apply the fixed cantilever deflection for the point load case, because there is no fixity at point B (the beam can rotate at B). You apparently (?) have access to tables for determining deflections and slopes for various loading and support conditions. For the uniform loading between A and B, you can calculate the deflection at C geometrically by using the slope of the deflection curve at B as the slope of the straight line deflection between B and C. Then, separately, find the deflection at C , from tables, for the point load case of a beam overhanging 2 supports with a load P at the free end, and set the deflections equal to solve for P. If you don't have tables, I guess you'll have to grind it out using calculus or shear-moment-slope-deflection diagrams. Did I understand your question correctly?
 
Your response gets me going in the right direction. I'll try what you mentioned and see what I turn up with. If I run into difficulties I'll look for further consultation. Thanks for leading me in the right direction. I was not exactly sure how to find the deflection occurring at C based upon the loadings.
 
Use virtual work. Set the deflections equal for each case and solve for P. I would guess this is how your instructor wants it to be solved and not just by manipulating existing tables.
 
I agree with haynewp
 
deviferr said:
I agree with haynewp
I disagree with haynewp. The problem statement lists table deflections and slopes for certain cases. I would guess this is how the instructor wants it to be solved, not by using tedious calculations. Only the instructor and Double A knows for sure, and he or she has probably graduated by now.:smile:
 
Just my feelings, but in an exam you'll not have tables and other aids to help, so your better of going through the numerical calculation method with calculus.

You can solve this using maculay method, well as far as i can see.

I have not really looked at it, so maybe no help. But seems to me you need to calculate the deflection at c when the load is applied between a and b.

I would then calculate how much load i would need to apply to c in order to deflect c downwards by the value of the deflection upwards, thus deflecting c back to zero.

Done something similar to this, if i find the notes i will post them.
 
hey guys~
i think i have found something,
1- deflection caused by the uniform load = qL^3/24EI
where L is 10, as i remember..
2- deflection caused by p =2pL^3/3EI

^_^
 

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