Nonlinear dynamic analysis of an inclined Timoshenko beam subjected to a moving mass/force with beam's weight included

Abstract

In this study, the nonlinear vibrations analysis of an inclined pinned-pinned self-weight Timoshenko beam made of linear, homogenous and isotropic material with a constant cross section and finite length subjected to a traveling mass/force with constant velocity is investigated. The nonlinear coupled partial differential equations of motion for the rotation of warped cross section, longitudinal and transverse displacements are derived using the Hamilton's principle. These nonlinear coupled PDEs are solved by applying the Galerkin's method to obtain dynamic responses of the beam. The dynamic magnification factor and normalized time histories of mid-point of the beam are obtained for various load velocity ratios and the outcome results have been compared to the results with those obtained from linear solution. The influence of the large deflections caused by a stretching effect due to the beam's fixed ends is captured. It was seen that existence of quadratic-cubic nonlinear terms in the nonlinear governing coupled PDEs of motion causes stiffening (hardening) behavior of the dynamic responses of the self-weight beam under the act of a traveling mass as well as equivalent concentrated moving force. Furthermore, in a case where the object leaves the beam, its planar motion path is derived and the targeting accuracy is investigated and compared with those from the rigid solution assumption. © 2011 - IOS Press and the authors. All rights reserved.