I am confused about the cantilever beam

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the analysis of a cantilever beam subjected to an end load, focusing on the relationship between flexural rigidity (EI), deflection (Y), and natural frequency (f). The formula for flexural rigidity is given as EI = m*g*L³ / 3Y, while the natural frequency is expressed as f = 1/(2∏) * √(3EI/mL³). The user highlights a circular logic issue in predicting frequency solely based on deflection, as deflection is influenced by mass and length, which cancel out in the frequency equation. The conclusion drawn is that in their specific system, EI is the most significant predictor of deflection and frequency.

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rarara
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Hi

For a cantilever beam with a load at its end,

flexural rigidity is:

EI = m*g*L3 / 3Y

Where m=mass, g=gravity, L=length of beam and Y=deflection

the natural frequency is

f = 1/(2∏) * √ ( 3EI/mL3)

Plugging in EI to the formula for f reveals that f depends only on the deflection, Y.

If I wanted to predict the frequency, would I therefore only need to measure Y? I am stuck in a circular logic loop because Y depends on m, L and EI but m and L cancel out in f =
 
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rarara
Plugging in EI to the formula for f reveals that f depends only on the deflection, Y.

So why is that surprising?

The deflection depends upon the end load m.

The frequency is the √(ratio of elastic forces to inertial ones) ω = √(k/m)

and k, the spring constant = Load/Deflection.

The equation of motion is (for vubrations in the y direction)


m\frac{{{d^2}y}}{{d{t^2}}} + ky = 0
 
Last edited:
I have measurements of m, L, Y and f

there is no relationship between Y and m, Y and L , F and m, F and L
there is correlation between Y and f

Could the lack of correlation in Y vs m and Y vs L indicate that in my system, EI is the most important predictor of Y and by extension f ?

I guess the real problem is that I do not have enough degrees of freedom to determine the effect of EI.
 

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