Academics Research Our Dept Resources Academics Undergraduate Programs Graduate Programs Course Descriptions Mission and Objectives Research Department Faculty & Staff Graduate Students Open Faculty Positions News & Announcements Events Resources Webmail Career Services Engineering Student Services Intranet Home > Our Department > All Events > Mechanics of Loops and Arches    Mechanics of Loops and Arches   By Dr. Lawrie Virgin Professor Duke University, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science   Thu, Sep 3, 2009 2:30 PM   Location: Lopata Hall Room 101   Abstract: This talk will focus on the deflection and dynamic behavior of very slender structures. For such systems gravity provides a natural loading device, and buckling is a typically encountered feature. Three distinct systems will be considered. First, a looping arch constructed from a material with a softening spring characteristic is examined. The phenomenon of interest is the sub-critical pitchfork bifurcation. An approximate energy analysis is followed by a more detailed approach. Second, a pinched loop is described in which the ends of a clamped-clamped beam are brought together, and orientation of the loop is shown to have a strong effect on subsequent behavior. Finally, a deep arch is subject to end rotation such that snap-through buckling occurs. All of these systems are described analytically in terms of the elastica, and experimental verification is conducted.     Mechanical, Aerospace & Structural Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis One Brookings Drive, Box 1185, St. Louis, Missouri 63130 Office Location: 305 Jolley Hall, Phone: (314) 935-6047, Fax: (314) 935-4014   Home |  Academics | Research | Department | Resources © 2009 | Did you find it?