Lagrange's Undetermined Multipliers

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of Lagrange's Undetermined Multipliers to analyze the dynamics of a hoop of radius r and mass m rolling on a cylinder of radius R. The equations of motion are derived using the Lagrangian, specifically L = 1/2 m (dot{xi}^2 + xi^2 dot{theta}^2 + r^2 dot{phi}^2) - mg xi cos(theta). The user expresses confusion regarding the correctness of their equations, particularly concerning the inclusion of the cylinder's energy and its constraints. Clarifications are sought on whether the cylinder is fixed or free to rotate, impacting the overall analysis.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Lagrangian mechanics and the Euler-Lagrange equations.
  • Familiarity with the concepts of rolling motion and constraints in dynamics.
  • Knowledge of gravitational effects on rigid bodies.
  • Basic proficiency in calculus and differential equations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Lagrange's Undetermined Multipliers in constrained systems.
  • Learn about the dynamics of rolling bodies, focusing on the conditions for rolling without slipping.
  • Explore the implications of fixed versus free constraints in mechanical systems.
  • Review the derivation and application of the Euler-Lagrange equations in multi-body systems.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, mechanical engineers, and anyone interested in advanced dynamics and the application of Lagrangian mechanics to complex systems.

tshafer
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Homework Statement



We have a hoop of radius r and mass m resting on a cylinder of radius R which rolls without slipping on the cylinder under the influence of gravity. If the hoop begins rolling from rest at the top of the cylinder, at what point does the hoop fall off of the cylinder?


Homework Equations



Hoop fixed on cylinder: f_1 = (R+r)-\xi = 0, \xi is the distance from the center of the cylinder to center of the hoop.
Rolling w/out slipping: f_2 = Rd\theta - rd\phi = 0

L = \frac 1 2 m \left( \dot{\xi}^2 + \xi^2\dot{\theta}^2 + r^2\dot{\phi}^2 \right) - mg\xi\cos\theta

The Attempt at a Solution



\frac{d}{dt}\frac{\partial L}{\partial\dot{\xi}} - \frac{\partial L}{\partial\xi} \implies -m\xi\dot\theta^2+mg\cos\theta = -\lambda_1

\frac{d}{dt}\frac{\partial L}{\partial\dot{\theta}} - \frac{\partial L}{\partial\theta} \implies m\xi^2\ddot{\theta}-mg\xi\sin\theta=R\lambda_2

\frac{d}{dt}\frac{\partial L}{\partial\dot{\phi}} - \frac{\partial L}{\partial\phi} \implies mr^2\ddot\phi = -r\lambda_2

I'm pretty sure the Lagrangian/E-L equations are wrong... I end up with a nonsensical expression for \lambda_2. Am I thinking about the problem incorrectly?
 
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tshafer said:
L = \frac 1 2 m \left( \dot{\xi}^2 + \xi^2\dot{\theta}^2 + r^2\dot{\phi}^2 \right) - mg\xi\cos\theta

Why are you only including the energy of the hoop? Is the cylinder fixed or is it free to rotate? Also, I assume the cylinder is resting on the ground?
 

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