Physical and Geometrical Nonlinear Dynamic Analysis of Beams on Foundations under Moving Loads

AbstractThis paper is dedicated to the nonlinear finite-element analysis of the dynamic behavior of beams on foundations under moving loads. The goal of the study is to generalize, for more realistic foundation behaviors, the analyses performed in other studies. The foundations are considered to be nonlinear with different tensile and compressive behaviors. Tensionless foundations lead to large beam deflections. Accordingly, the finite-element formulation of the problem is derived taking into account the geometrical nonlinear behavior of the beam. Critical velocities of the moving loads are computed, and the effect of the physical and geometrical nonlinear behavior of the system on their values is analyzed.