Mechanics 2 Tutorial 8: Castiglianos theorem (1)

1 State Castiglianos theorem for beam deflection. Include a definition of all terms.
2 Using Castiglianos theorem prove that the equation for the deflection of a cantilever
beam subjected to a point load as shown in Figure 1 is given by Equation 1.

= (Equation 1)

Figure 1: Cantilever beam (1)

The following equation (Equation 2) may be useful in your derivation.

= (Equation 2)

3 Figure 2 details a simple beam (AB) arrangement with constant flexural rigidity (EI)
subjected to a force P acting at a distance (L/2) from one end. Determine the
deflection at the point where the load is applied.

Figure 2: Simple beam (1)

4 Figure 3 details a simple beam (AB) arrangement with constant flexural rigidity (EI)
subjected to a force P acting at a distance (L/4) from one end. Determine the
deflection at the point where the load is applied.

Figure 3: Simple beam (2)

5 An additional load (P1) is added to the beam shown in Figure 1 at location B which is
a distance of L/2 from the unsupported end of the beam. The arrangement is shown
in Figure 4. Determine the deflection of the beam at location B.

Figure 4: Cantilever beam (2)

6 The loading arrangement detailed in Figure 2 is changed to a uniform load of

intensity q=w/L, see Figure 5. Determine the maximum deflection of the beam under
the new loading conditions.

Figure 5: Simple beam (3)