Author: Benjamin Mullen, Cornell University

Problem Specification
1. Pre-Analysis & Start-Up
2. Numerical Results
3. Verification and Validation
Exercises
Comments

Pre-Analysis & Start-Up

Pre-Analysis

There are three difference theories for finding the solution for the bending of a curved beam. There is elasticity theory, where

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\ln(\frac

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$$
and
$$
\sigma_\theta = (\frac

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)(1+\ln(\frac

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$$
where
$$
N = (1 - \frac

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)^2 - 4(\frac

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$$

There is Winkler Bach Theory, where

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$$
\sigma_x = \frac

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[ 1 + \frac

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$$
where
$$
Z = -1 + \frac

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$$

And there is the straight beam theory, where

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$$
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$$

ANSYS Simulation

Now, let's load the problem into ANSYS and see how a computer simulation will compare. First, start by downloading the files here
The zip file should contain the following contents:

Curved Beam Solution_files folder
Curved Beam Solution.wbpj

Please make sure to extract both of these files from the zip folder, the program will not work otherwise. (Note: The solution was created using ANSYS workbench 13.0 release, there may be compatibility issues when attempting to open with older versions).

2. Double click "Curved Beam Solution.wbpj" - This should automatically open ANSYS workbench (you have to twiddle your thumbs a bit before it opens up). You will be presented with the ANSYS solution.

A tick mark against each step indicates that that step has been completed.

3. To look at the results, double click on "Results" - This should bring up a new window (again you have to twiddle your thumbs a bit before it opens up).

4. On the left-hand side there should be an "Outline" toolbar. Look for "Solution (A6)".