112
Mechanics
of
Materials
$5.8
Again working relative to the zero slope point at the centre
C,
1
El
slope at
A
=
-
[area of
B.M.
diagram between
A
and
C
(Fig. 5.23)]
16EZ
Deflection of
A
relative to
C
(=
central deflection of
C)
1
El
=
-[moment of
B.M.
diagram between
A
and
C
about
A]
1LWL
WL3
=
&
[
(z;iq)(
E)]
=
48EI
5.8.
Principle
of
superposition
The general statement for the principle of superposition asserts that the resultant stress or
strain in a system subjected to several forces is the algebraic sum of their effects when applied
separately. The principle can be utilised, however, to determine the deflections of beams
subjected to complicated loading conditions which, in reality, are merely combinations of a
number of simple systems. In addition to the simple standard cases introduced previously,
numerous different loading conditions have been solved by various workers and their results
may be found in civil or mechanical engineering handbooks
or
data sheets. Thus, the
algebraic sum of the separate deflections caused by a convenient selection of standard loading
cases will produce the total deflection of the apparently complex case.
It must be appreciated, however, that the principle of superposition is only valid whilst the
beam material remains elastic and for small beam deflections. (Large deflections would
produce unacceptable deviation of the lines of action of the loads relative to the beam axis.)
5.9.
Energy method
A
further, alternative, procedure for calculating deflections
of
beams or structures is based
upon the application
of
strain energy considerations. This is introduced in detail in Chapter
11
aild will not be considered further here.
5.10.
Maxwell’s theorem
of
reciprocal displacements
Consider a beam subjected to two loads
WA
and
WB
at points
A
and B respectively as
shown in Fig. 5.24. Let
WA
be gradually applied first, producing a deflection
a
at
A.
Work done
=
3
WAa
When
WB
is applied
it
will produce a deflection
b
at Band an additional deflection
6,,
at
A
(the latter occurring in the presence of a now constant load
WJ.
Extra work done
=
3
WB
b
+
WA
dab
..
total work done
=
f
WA a
+
3J
WB
b
+
WA
a,,