Module 4: Deflection of Structures Lecture 6: Maxwell-Betti Law of Reciprocal Deflections
Module 4: Deflection of Structures Lecture 6: Maxwell-Betti Law of Reciprocal Deflections
Module 4: Deflection of Structures Lecture 6: Maxwell-Betti Law of Reciprocal Deflections
is
In order to prove the reciprocal theorem, consider the simple beams shown in Figure 4.32.
Let a vertical force
at point A and
at point B as shown
at point A produces a
in Figure 4.32(a). Similarly, in Figure 4.32(b) the application of a vertical force
vertical deflections
and
at points A and B , respectively. Let us evaluate the total work done by the
two forces
Case 1:
and
when they are applied in different order to the zero to their final value.
is gradually applied
s
(b) Work done when
in place
(4.29)
Case2:
is gradually applied
in place
(4.30)
Since the final deflected position of the beam produced by the two cases of loads is the same regardless of
the order in which the loads are applied. The total work done by the forces is also the same regardless of the
order in which the loads are applied. Thus, equating the total work of Cases 1 and 2 give
(4.31)
If
, the equation (4.31) depicts the statement of the Maxwell-Betti law i.e.
The Maxwell-Betti theorem also holds for rotations as well as rotation and linear displacement in beams and
frames.
Example 4.21 Verify Maxwell-Betti law of reciprocal displacement for the direction 1 and 2 of the pin-jointed
structure shown in Figure 4.33(a).
and
Table 4.5
Member
Length
AB
AC
Force P
-(
)
P1
Since
Example 4.22 Verify Maxwell-Betti law of reciprocal displacement for the cantilever beam shown in Figure
4.34(a).
and
is calculated below.
Consider any point X at a distance x from B .
Since
Example 4.23 Verify Maxwell-Betti law of reciprocal displacement for the rigid-jointed plane frame with
reference to marked direction as shown in Figure 4.35(a). EI is same for both members.
and
Thus
Since
Recap
In this course you have learnt the following
Maxwell-Betti Law of reciprocal deflection.