Generalized beam theory for thin-walled beams with curvilinear open cross-sections

Abstract

The use of the Generalized Beam Theory (GBT) is extended to thin-walled beams with curvilinear cross-sections. After defining the kinematic features of the walls, where their curvature is consistently accounted for, the displacement of the points is assumed as linear combination of unknown amplitudes and pre-established trial functions. The latter, and specifically their in-plane components, are chosen as dynamic modes of a curved beam in the shape of the member cross-section. Moreover, the out-of-plane components come from the imposition of the Vlasov internal constraint of shear indeformable middle surface. For a case study of semi-annular cross-section, i.e., constant curvature, the modes are analytically evaluated and the procedure is implemented for two different load conditions. Outcomes are compared to those of a FEM model.