Distributed Loads: Problem Solving

Beams are structural elements commonly employed in engineering applications requiring different load-carrying capacities. The first step in analyzing a beam under a distributed load is to simplify the problem by dividing the load into smaller regions, which allows one to consider each region separately and calculate the magnitude of the equivale...

Consider a tapered beam OB fixed at one end and subjected to a distributed load.

Determine the equivalent resultant force of the varying load and locate its position on the beam.

First, divide the distributed load into two triangular regions.

Next, the magnitude of the equivalent resultant load of the left and right triangul...