Dynamic non-linear response of beams subjected to impact loads

A non-linear theory is presented for plane deformation of beams which allows for longitudinal stretching as well as for cross-sectional stretching and shearing. The exact strain measures for this theory are also deduced. The longitudinal and flexural motions are coupled in the theory. If the cross section is constrained from stretching, the resulting theory may be classified as a non-linear Timoshenko beam theory. The equations of the latter theory are used to study the motion of beams under impact loads.