Torsional analysis of open section thin-walled beams

Abstract

The main purpose of this paper is to present one approach to the optimization of thin-walled I, Z and channel-section beams subjected to constrained torsion. The displacement constraints are introduced: allowable angle of twist and allowable angle of twist per unit length. The area of the cross-section is assumed to be the objective function. Applying the Lagrange multiplier method, the equations whose solutions represent the optimal values of the ratios of the parts of the chosen cross-sections are derived.

Keywords

• thin-walled beams
• cantilever beam
• optimal dimensions
• displacement constraints