Variational formulation of curved beams in global coordinates (Q2512443)

The authors derive a variational formulation for the static analysis of a linear curved beam in global Cartesian coordinates. With the exception of truly three-dimensional formulations, models for curved beams found in the literature are typically derived in the local Frenet frame. Using an implicit description of the beam midline during the derivation, the authors eliminate the need for local coordinates. The only geometrical information appearing in the final expressions for the governing equations employs the tangential direction. As a consequence, zero or discontinuous curvature, for example at inflection points, poses no difficulty in this formulation. Kinematic assumptions including both Timoshenko and Euler-Bernoulli beam theories are considered. The authors implement finite element methods with global degrees of freedom and discuss curvature-coupling effects and locking. Numerical comparisons with classical solutions for straight and curved cantilever beams under tip load are given, as well as numerical examples illustrating curvature-coupling effects.