General Properties of Elastic Bodies

Abstract

We start with the basic principles of the elasticity theory. Utilization of theory-of-elasticity methods and solutions enables us to determine the magnitude and distribution of elastic stresses and displacements in the most substantiated and complete manner, thereby providing a sound basis for a rational design of reliable and lightweight structures. In many cases, an elastic analysis is sufficient. In other cases, it can be successfully used as the first approximation for a further plastic, elastoplastic, viscoelastic, or fracture analysis. At the same time, familiarity with the methods and general relationships of the elasticity theory, and with the general properties of the states of stress and strain, is always a great help when it comes to introducing various simplifying assumptions in those engineering problems that cannot be solved on the basis of theory-of-elasticity methods only.