Slope and deflection diagrams using conjugate beam method

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around constructing slope and deflection diagrams using the conjugate beam method, focusing on a specific homework problem involving shear and moment diagrams. Participants explore methods for deriving these diagrams and address challenges related to integration and boundary conditions.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes their approach to drawing shear and moment diagrams for both the original and conjugate beams, expressing uncertainty about proceeding with the conjugate beam due to complicated loading.
  • Another participant suggests using an integration method to find reactions in the conjugate beam and outlines steps for integrating to obtain slope and deflection, noting expected results at the ends of the beam.
  • A different participant shares specific values for reactions and moment in the conjugate beam, questioning the need for integration constants based on end conditions and expressing concern about the shear diagram behavior.
  • One participant advises on the importance of showing detailed work to facilitate grading and understanding, emphasizing the need for clarity in the integration process.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express different methods and approaches for solving the problem, indicating that there is no consensus on a single method or solution. Some participants agree on the need for integration constants, while others focus on the procedural aspects of constructing diagrams.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the importance of considering end conditions and integration constants, but specific assumptions or definitions are not fully resolved. The discussion reflects varying levels of familiarity with the integration method and its application to the problem.

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Homework Statement


Construct the slope and deflection diagrams. I've attached the problem with the original diagram (problem #1).

The Attempt at a Solution


Considering the number of diagrams required, I thought it would be best to attach a photo of my work.
I drew the shear and moment diagrams for the original beam, with equations for V and M as follows:
V = {150 (0<x<3), -75x (3<x<5)
M = {150x (0<x<3), -75/2*x2 + 375x (3<x<5)

I then drew the conjugate beam, which is essentially a mirror image of the original beam. I then loaded it with M/EI, where M is the moment from the original beam. Now, I know I need to draw the shear and moment diagrams for the conjugate beams, and these will be the slope and deflection diagrams. I'm just not sure how to go about this, considering the complicated loading.
Also, for another problem, I am told to find the max deflection. Is there a way to do this without constructing the shear and moment diagrams(for the conjugate beam)?

Thank you.
 

Attachments

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Last edited:
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Use an "integration" method, rather than a "cutting" method.

1) Get your reactions in you conjugate beam.

2) Integrate to get the slope (makes no difference if you start at the left end or the right end). You should find that you get zero at the left end of your conjugate beam, and something nonzero (equal and opposite to your reaction) at the right end of your conjugate beam. So, in the actual beam, the slope is zero at the fixed end and nonzero at the free end (as expected).

3) Integrate (2) to get the deflection.
You will find that you again get zero at the left end of your conjugate beam, and something nonzero at the right end of your conjugate beam. So, in the actual beam, the deflection is zero at the fixed end and nonzero at the free end (as expected).

Hope that helps,
 
I got RC'y=1425/EI and MC'=4387.5/EI .
I also found the equations for V and M of the conjugate beam. Do I need to consider end conditions to find integration constants? As it stands right now, my shear diagram goes down to -900/EI at x=3, and with the equation I have for 3<x<5, it would go towards the axis. However, the reaction I found at C' would need the diagram to end at -1425/EI at x=5.

Attached is more of my work.
Thank you.
 

Attachments

  • IMG00186-20111204-1616.jpg
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To answer your question regarding "integration constants" -- yes, I would expect to see some constant values in your equations. My advice would be to consult a statics textbook if you aren't familiar with the "integration" method for finding shear and moment diagrams.

Some more advice, just to help you out, because I've been in your position:
Show a lot more work.

The grader can't give you partial credit if they cannot follow your steps. For example, I have no idea how you got your equations because you don't show the steps that you took in order to arrive at them. Where are the integrals? I expected to see an integral sign "∫" somewhere in your work.
 

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