Global analysis of secondary bifurcation of an elastic bar

In a three dimensional framework of finite deformation configurations, this paper investigates the secondary bifurcation of a uniform, isotropic and linearly elastic bar under compression in a large range of parameters. The governing differential equations and finite dimensional equations of this problem are discussed. It is found that, for a bar with two ends hinged, usually many secondary bifurcation points appear on the primary branches which correspond to the maximum bending stiffness. Results are shown on parameter charts. Secondary modes and branches are also calculated with numerical methods. The project supported in part by the National Natural Science Foundation of China