Approximate Analytical Solution for a Unilateral Contact Problem with Heavy Elastica

Abstract

The non-linear bending of slender heavy beam resting on rigid plane and subjected to the end point force is studied. Solution of the problem is derived by using series expansion technique. Approximate closed-form analytical solution for the length of the separated segment of elastica is found. It is shown that obtained simple solution can be used as the approximate lower bound for the evaluation of the force that should be applied to the beam’s end to provide the prescribed length of separation, while the known classical solution of linear theory can be used as the upper bound.