Application of Lie transformation group methods to classical linear theories of rods and plates

In the present paper, a class of partial differential equations governing various rod and plate theories of Bernoulli–Euler and Poisson–Kirchhoff type is studied by Lie transformation group methods. A system of equations determining the generators of the admitted point Lie groups (symmetries) is derived and the general statement of the associated group-classification problem is given. A simple relation is deduced allowing to recognize easily the variational symmetries among the “ordinary” symmetries of a self-adjoint equation of the class examined. Explicit formulae for the conserved currents of the corresponding (via Bessel-Hagen’s extension of Noether’s theorem) conservation laws are suggested. Solutions of group-classification problems are given for subclasses of equations of the foregoing type governing stability and vibration of rods, fluid conveying pipes and plates resting on variable elastic foundations. The obtained group-classification results are used to derive conservation laws and group-invariant solutions readily applicable in rod dynamics and plate statics and dynamics. New generalized symmetries and conservation laws for the theories of Timoshenko beams, Reissner–Mindlin plates and three-dimensional elastostatics are presented.