Tapered Beams under Distributed Flank Loads: Solutions of Two‐dimensional Loading Problems on an Infinite Wedge

Abstract

In this article solutions are set out for various types of external loading of a plate in the shape of an infinite wedge. All the problems considered are two‐dimensional in character and a state of generalized plane stress is assumed throughout. The general approach is that developed by A. C. Stevenson in terms of complex potentials, details of which have been published, but a summary of the results required in this article is included in §1. This method embodies also the use of stress combinations Θ and Φ which together with the complex potentials leads to a compactness of solution which compares very favourably with the Airy stress function method, particularly in respect of boundary conditions. Certain classical problems are presented in this light and used to obtain the approximate stress distribution when the beam is under the action of an elliptically distributed load. The effect of the weight of the beam is also indicated. Although not engaged in work on aircraft design, the writer is encouraged by work previously published on this subject to believe that the solutions contained in this article may have applications in that field.

Citation

Godfrey, D.E.R. (1954), "Tapered Beams under Distributed Flank Loads: Solutions of Two‐dimensional Loading Problems on an Infinite Wedge", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 26 No. 8, pp. 240-243. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb032454