Dynamic Response of Prestressed Tapered Timoshenko Beams to Uniform Partially Distributed Moving Loads

Abstract

The dynamics of a prestressed variable cross-section Timoshenko beam subjected to a moving partially distributed load is investigated. The Finite element method with Lagrange interpolation functions and reduced integration element were used to model the structure. The Newmark numerical method of integration was used to solve the resulting semi-discrete time dependent equations to obtain the desired responses. The effects of the prestress, moving load�s velocity, moving load�s length, and boundary conditions on the dynamic characteristic of the beams were investigated and the results presented graphically.

Keywords

• prestressed
• tapered beam
• equal interpolation
• weak form