Question

What is the minimum number of linear beam elements that is necessary to model a symmetric simply supported strucutre of length L, if one only needs to extract the deflection and stress at the midpoint of the structure under a center vertical point load? Explain.

Answer 1

Ans:

In the case of a beam bent by transverse loads acting in a plane of symmetry, the bending moment M varies along the length of the beam and we represent the variation of bending moment in B.M diagram. Futher, it is assumed that the simple bending theory equation holds good.

The minimum number of linear beam elements that is necessary to model a symmetric simply supported strucutre of length L, if one only needs to extract the deflection and stress at the midpoint of the structure under a center vertical point load is two.