Stress Analysis of Thin Metal Construction

Abstract

In seeking to analyse the stress distribution in a complex structure, our object is really twofold. In the first place, if the stress in each part is accurately known, the strength of each part separately can be assessed on the basis of tests on simple units and the necessity for testing the complete structure may be avoided. In the second place, if the stress distribution can be expressed as a function of the geometry of the structure, the effect of varying that geometry, particularly with the object of realising Holmes’ one-hoss-shay, can be examined theoretically and arbitrary-features of the design can be eliminated. If our knowledge were complete, any structure designed to a maximal or minimal condition would not permit any variation from one ideal form, the design would be uniquely determined by the stated requirements.