Chaos in a single equilibrium point system: Finite deformations

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine a highly nonlinear model of a slender beam which yields chaotic solutions for some forcing amplitudes. The study is unique in that the governing partial differential equations are solved directly, and that the model lends itself to a more physical analysis of the beam than traditional chaotic models. In addition, the analysis will provide proof that a beam experiencing moderate deformations without stops or an initial axial force can exhibit chaotic motion. The model represents a simply-supported. Euler-Bernoulli beam subjected to a transverse load. The forcing function is sinusoidally distributed in space with an amplitude which also varies sinusoidally in time and is assumed to reach a maximum sufficient to allow nonlinearities associated with finite deformations to become important. During motion, even though displacements are large, the beam is assumed to attain only small strain levels and thus is assumed to be linearly elastic. The results indicate that for most levels of the forcing function the response of the beam is periodic. However, the steady state motion is not sinusoidal in time and in fact exhibits some bifurcated motions. At a certain level of the forcing amplitude, an asymmetry is observed and the periodicity of the motion breaks down as the beam experiences a period doubling cascade which culminates in a chaotic motion. The progression from periodic to chaotic motion is presented through a series of phase plane and Poincané plots, and physical variables such as bending moment are examined.