Institute of Fundamental Technological Research

Optimal design of a rigid-plastic stepped beam is discussed assuming the mode form of motion. Such beam dimensions are sought for which a minimum of local or mean deflection is attained within designs of constant volume. It is assumed that the prescribed kinetic energy is imparted to the structure at the initial instant with free motion occurring afterwards. It is shown that besides three symmetric modes of motion, also the asymmetric modes may exist. An optimal design for asymmetric modes is determined and compared with a respective design for symmetric modes, obtained previously in [1].

Optimal design of a rigid-plastic stepped beam and circular plate is considered in the first part of the paper assuming the mode form of motion. The form of optimal mode is sought for which a structure of constant volume attains a minimum of local or mean deflection. It is assumed that the constant kinetic energy Ko is attained by the structure through impulsive loading. Differences between optimal static and dynamic solutions are discussed. Non-uniqueness of modes is demonstrated and significance of stable mode motions is emphasized. In the second part of the paper, an optimal design of a rigid-plastic stepped beam loaded by a uniform pressure over a time interval 0 ⩽ t ⩽ t1 is considered assuming constant beam volume and looking for a design corresponding to minimum of local deflection. The solution presented is valid for moderate dynamic pressures when mode motion occurs during consecutive time intervals and no travelling plastic hinges exist.