On the displacement potential solution of plane problems of structural mechanics with mixed boundary conditions

The present paper describes the advancement of displacement potential approach in relation to solution of plane problems of structural mechanics with mixed mode of boundary conditions. Both the conditions of the plane stress and the plane strain are considered for analyzing the displacement and stress fields of the structural problem. Using the finite difference technique based on the present displacement potential approach for the case of the plane stress and the plane strain conditions, firstly an elastic cantilever beam subjected to a pure shear at its tip is solved and these two solutions (plane stress and plane strain) are compared with Timoshenko and Goodier cantilever beam bending solutions (Theory of elasticity, 2nd edn. McGraw-Hill, New York, 1951); secondly the above-mentioned displacement potential approach for the case of the plane stress and the plane strain conditions are applied to solve a one-end fixed square plate subjected to a combined loading at its tip. Effects of plane stress and plane strain on the elastic field of the plate are discussed in a comparative fashion. Limitations of Timoshenko and Goodier cantilever beam bending solutions (Theory of elasticity, 2nd edn. McGraw-Hill, New York, 1951) over the displacement potential approach for the case of the plane stress and the plane strain conditions are not only discussed but also the superiority of the present displacement potential approach for the case of the plane stress and the plane strain conditions are reflected in the present research work.