On the accuracy of various large axial displacement formulae for crooked columns

Abstract

The axial displacements of an initially crooked, simply supported column, subjected to an axial compressive force at its end, are determined by using several variants of the axial strain-displacement relationship. Their accuracy and range of applicability are thoroughly discussed by comparing the corresponding results with those of the exact elastica analysis in which the compressibility effect of the bar axis is accounted for. Among other findings, the important conclusion is drawn that the simplified linear kinematic relation leads to a sufficiently accurate evaluation of the initial part of the postbuckling path which is of significant importance for structural design purposes.