Principle of Virtual Work: Problem Solving

The principle of virtual work is an essential concept in the field of mechanics and engineering. This is used to solve problems related to the equilibrium of a structure or system. It is based on the assumption that if a system is in equilibrium, the work done by all the forces during a virtual displacement is zero. This principle is applied by ...

Consider a scissors linkage system connected to a spring, which is unstretched at a certain angle.

In the presence of an external force, the spring stretches and the system undergoes a virtual displacement. In this condition, only the spring force and the external force contribute to work.

To determine the deflection angle to maint...